Endoscopic vein harvest of the lesser saphenous vein in the supine position: a unique approach to an old problem.

OBJECTIVES To obtain a suitable conduit from the lesser (short) saphenous system for use in coronary artery bypass surgery. We wanted to perform this while the patient was in the supine position as to not disrupt the standard operation, and at the same time, utilizing the endoscopic vein harvest technique with its obvious abilities to decrease vein harvest morbidity. We also theorized that through endoscopic techniques instead of the open technique we could harvest greater lengths of conduit, thus providing quality vein segments for additional grafts if needed. METHODS We were able to perform endoscopic vein harvest while in the supine position with one unique centrally located incision that has not been previously described. RESULTS The lesser saphenous vein harvested in the described technique provided excellent conduit for our patients that were conduit poor. The endoscopic technique allowed increased length of harvested segments, by giving us the ability to travel under the gastrocnemius muscle with minimal morbidity as opposed to the open technique, where the traditional endpoint is the aforementioned muscle. Conduits were harvested successfully from 14 of 16 candidates. No wound infections or healing problems were experienced. Neurovascular integrity was maintained in all patients. CONCLUSIONS Endoscopic vein harvest of the lesser saphenous vein with the patient in the supine position is safe, effective and affords conduits for a unique subset of patients undergoing coronary artery bypass grafting.