Kuala Lumpur:Coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) surgery often involves harvesting a vein from the leg, traditionally through a long incision. However, a minimally invasive technique known as endoscopic vein harvesting (EVH) is emerging as a beneficial alternative. This method uses a small incision and a camera, offering patients smaller scars, less pain, faster healing, and a reduced risk of complications.

According to BERNAMA News Agency, Dr. Mohd Zamrin Dimon, a Consultant Cardiothoracic Surgeon at Sunway Medical Centre Velocity (SMCV), highlighted the advantages of EVH, noting its particular benefits for patients with healing difficulties, such as diabetics. He explained that CABG is performed to improve blood flow when coronary arteries are blocked, using a vessel from another part of the body, such as the saphenous vein from the leg.

The conventional approach, open vein harvesting (OVH), requires a long incision, potentially leading to large scars and prolonged wound healing, which can hinder recovery. In contrast, EVH involves only small incisions, allowing for quicker healing and earlier mobilization, reducing the risk of complications like blood clots.

Dr. Zamrin emphasized that, while EVH has significant recovery benefits, fewer procedures currently employ this technique due to the need for specialized skills and training. EVH takes slightly longer to perform than traditional methods but offers an important alternative for suitable patients.

He stressed that the choice between EVH and conventional methods should be based on thorough medical evaluation and discussion with the attending surgeon, as not all patients, particularly those with certain vein conditions, may be suitable for EVH.