Veress needle
Pronunciation: veh-RESS
A spring-loaded needle used to safely create initial pneumoperitoneum for laparoscopic access.
Full Definition
The Veress needle is a specialized instrument consisting of a sharp trocar with a spring-loaded, blunt-tipped inner stylet used to establish pneumoperitoneum in laparoscopic surgery. When the needle penetrates the peritoneum, the inner stylet springs forward to protect underlying organs from injury. The needle includes a gas inlet port for CO2 insufflation and often has safety features such as audible clicks to confirm proper placement. In bariatric surgery, the Veress needle is commonly inserted at Palmer's point or through the umbilicus to create the initial gas-filled working space before trocar insertion.
Usage
Usage note: Named after Hungarian surgeon János Veress; alternative to Hassan technique.
In Context
- "Access was obtained using a Veress needle inserted at Palmer's point due to previous abdominal surgery." — Surgical technique note