Veress needle
Pronunciation: vuh-RESS
A spring-loaded needle with a blunt tip used to safely insufflate CO₂ gas into the peritoneal cavity before trocar insertion.
Full Definition
The Veress needle is a specialized insufflation needle designed with a spring-loaded, retractable blunt tip that emerges once the needle penetrates the peritoneal cavity, reducing the risk of organ injury during gas insufflation. Named after Hungarian surgeon János Veress, this instrument allows surgeons to safely establish pneumoperitoneum before inserting the first trocar. The needle features a side port for gas flow and pressure monitoring. Alternative techniques include direct trocar insertion or the Hasson open technique for establishing pneumoperitoneum.
Usage
Usage note: Always capitalize as it's named after János Veress.
In Context
- "The Veress needle was inserted at Palmer's point due to previous abdominal surgery." — Operative report
- "Correct intraperitoneal placement of the Veress needle was confirmed by the saline drop test." — Surgical procedure note