Endoscopic Vein
Introduction
The greater saphenous vein (GSV), the most often utilized conduit in coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery, has been harvested via endoscopic vein harvesting (EVH) for the past ten years. Because saphenous veins are long and easy to harvest, they are frequently used. The need for more and better conduits has grown as a result of the increased demand for CABG surgery worldwide and the growing number of patients who need multiple coronary artery bypasses in one procedure.
https://healthcheckbox.com/cardiology/endoscopic-vein-harvesting/
Objectives Of EVH
● Understand the EVH procedure.
● Compare EVH with conventional open harvesting.
● Explore the benefits, risks, and clinical outcomes.
● Review current guidelines and best practices.
https://healthcheckbox.com/cardiology/endoscopic-vein-harvesting/
What is EVH?
EVH stands for Endoscopic Vessel Harvesting, a minimally invasive surgical technique used to harvest veins from the legs for use as bypass grafts in coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG) surgery. It involves using a small incision and advanced camera system to remove the vein.
https://healthcheckbox.com/cardiology/endoscopic-vein-harvesting/
Step-by-Step Procedure
1. Small incision made near the ankle or knee
https://healthcheckbox.com/cardiology/endoscopic-vein-harvesting/
2. Insertion of endoscopic system
3. CO insufflation to create working space
4. Dissection of vein from surrounding tissue
5. Side branches clipped or cauterized
6. Vein removed and flushed for use in CABG
● Reduced wound infection and pain
● Smaller scars and better cosmetic outcome
● Shorter hospital stay
● Faster recovery
● Improved patient satisfaction
https://healthcheckbox.com/cardiology/endoscopic-vein-harvesting/
● Learning curve for surgeons
● Potential for vein damage if improperly handled
● Equipment cost
● Risk of hematoma or residual CO₂
https://healthcheckbox.com/cardiology/endoscopic-vein-harvesting/
Guidelines & Recommendations
● EVH is recommended in patients at high risk for wound complications (e.g., diabetes, obesity)
● Should be performed by trained personnel
● Emphasis on vein quality assessment before grafting
https://healthcheckbox.com/cardiology/endoscopic-vein-harvesting/
Endoscopic Vein Harvesting (EVH) represents a significant advancement in coronary artery bypass surgery, offering a less invasive, patient-friendly alternative to traditional open harvesting. By minimizing surgical trauma, EVH reduces wound complications, pain, and recovery time, while maintaining comparable graft quality and long-term outcomes.
https://healthcheckbox.com/cardiology/endoscopic-vein-harvesting/