Minimally invasive vein harvest: New techniques with old tools

Greater saphenous vein harvest has been the focus of increasing applications of endoscopic techniques aimed at reducing wound complication, increasing patient comfort, and providing more acceptable cosmetic results. A retired, reusable, lighted retractor used for breast surgery was adapted using minimally invasive and bridge techniques resulting in decreased incisions, gentle vein handling, decreased harvest to closure time, and better wound healing compared with open techniques. (C) 1999 by The Society of Thoracic Surgeons.