Preoperative evaluation of the saphenous vein by 3-D contrastless computed tomography.

ABSTRACT

Volume-rendering computed tomography (CT) without contrast medium has clearly demonstrated the 3-D mapping of the saphenous vein (SV). Contrastless volume-rendering CT was used to preoperatively evaluate the SV anatomy before coronary artery bypass grafting (CABG). This technique was useful for atypical anatomical variations, such as partial duplication of SV (Case 1) or varicose veins (Case 2). Volume-rendering CT may also help with redo CABG (to determine remaining SV) or during endoscopic SV harvesting with restricted view. Volume-rendering CT is an objective, less time-consuming modality to evaluate the SV preoperatively and may be less invasive in terms of avoiding unnecessary skin incision.