1. A 3cm incision is made just above the knee directly over the
saphenous vein. The vein is mobilized and controlled with a vessel
loop.
2. A standard 5mm 30° endoscope is inserted into the SAPHfinder™
surgical balloon dissector. This provides an endoscopic view on
the monitor to allow precise tracking of the saphenous vein and
proper balloon positioning. The balloon is inserted subcutaneously
along the anterior surface of the saphenous vein toward the groin.
3. With the suction outlet closed, the balloon is inflated to
its recommended fill volume with saline. Once the balloon is fully
inflated, the dissection is complete. The balloon is emptied by
opening the suction outlet.
4. When the fluid has been completely evacuated, remove the SAPHfinder™
surgical balloon dissector from the incision.
5. The 5mm 30° endoscope is removed from the SAPHfinder™ surgical
Balloon dissector and inserted into the SPACEKEEPER™ retractor.
The retractor is inserted into the dissected space.
6. Select the appropriate Hook or Fork Dissector instrument to
harvest the vein from its surrounding tissue bed. Tributaries
are ligated with a clip applier. Endoscopic shears may then be
used to divide the tributary.
7. Continue as above until the desired length of vessel has been
completely harvested from its bed. Additional incisions may be
necessary to facilitate exposure. If access to more vein is required,
a similar technique may be employed from the knee to the ankle.
8. Once the required length of vein has been harvested, the cavity
is suction irrigated with saline and inspected under endoscopic
visualization to ensure adequate hemostasis. The incisions are
closed according to operator preference. |
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