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Journal of Cardiothoracic Surgery
Published in: Journal of Cardiothoracic Surgery 1/2016

Open Access 01-12-2016 | Review

A comprehensive review on learning curve associated problems in endoscopic vein harvesting and the requirement for a standardised training programme

Authors: Bhuvaneswari Krishnamoorthy, William R. Critchley, Rajamiyer V. Venkateswaran, James Barnard, Ann Caress, James E. Fildes, Nizar Yonan

Published in: Journal of Cardiothoracic Surgery | Issue 1/2016

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Abstract

Endoscopic vein harvesting is becoming one of the most favourable vein harvesting techniques in multiple bypass coronary surgery, due to its short term post-operative benefits with high patient satisfaction. However, long-term graft patency has been both supported and questioned in the literature. Graft failure can be affected by harvesting methods and operator’s experience. Endoscopic vein harvesting is associated with a learning curve period, during which the incidence of vein trauma is high due to unfamiliarity with the surgical technique. There is a paucity of structured learning tools for novice practitioners, meaning that training differs significantly between hospital centres. Inconsistent training methods can lead to poor surgical technique, which can have a significant impact on vein quality and stress level of the practitioner. In turn, this can lead to increased postoperative complications and longer surgical duration. The main aim of this literature review is to understand the impact of the learning curve on the vein conduit and whether there is a requirement for a standardised training programme for the novice practitioners.
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Metadata
Title
A comprehensive review on learning curve associated problems in endoscopic vein harvesting and the requirement for a standardised training programme
Authors
Bhuvaneswari Krishnamoorthy
William R. Critchley
Rajamiyer V. Venkateswaran
James Barnard
Ann Caress
James E. Fildes
Nizar Yonan
Publication date
01-12-2016
Publisher
BioMed Central
Published in
Journal of Cardiothoracic Surgery / Issue 1/2016
Electronic ISSN: 1749-8090
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1186/s13019-016-0442-y

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