Between October 1996 and August 1997, 56 endoscopic vein harvests were performed with video monitoring. Incisions of 2 to 3 cm in length were made at the groin and above or below the knee. The harvested veins were used for coronary artery bypass grafting. The complication rate was 1.8%. The average hospital stay for patients undergoing the endoscopic procedure was 7.2 days. All incisions had healed well at the 12-week follow-up. Endoscopic saphenous vein harvest provides a minimally invasive alternative to the open procedure. It gives a good cosmetic result, promotes early ambulation, and may reduce postoperative pain.
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