Endoscopic saphenous vein harvesting: minimally invasive video-assisted saphenectomy

Ann Thorac Surg. 1997 Oct;64(4):1183-5. doi: 10.1016/s0003-4975(97)00812-6.

Abstract

A technique of greater saphenous vein harvesting for coronary artery revascularization using an endoscopic approach is herein detailed. The saphenous vein is directly identified at the knee through a single incision. An endoscopic dissector is advanced proximally and distally along the course of the vein, ligating side-branches with clips. The vein is divided at the ends of dissection, dependent on patient anatomy, by either a counterincision, endoscopic clips, or ligation with an Endo-loop.

MeSH terms

  • Endoscopy / methods*
  • Humans
  • Saphenous Vein / transplantation*