Veress Needle: Definition, Functions, and Applications in Modern Surgery

The Veress needle is a specialized medical instrument widely used in laparoscopic (minimally invasive) surgeries to establish a pneumoperitoneum—a controlled inflation of the abdominal cavity with carbon dioxide (CO₂) gas. Named after its inventor, Hungarian surgeon János Veress, this device features a sharp outer cannula and a spring-loaded inner stylet. The stylet retracts upon encountering resistance (e.g., abdominal wall layers) and automatically re-extends once it enters the peritoneal cavity, minimizing accidental organ injury.

Laparoscopic Veress Needle | GCMEDICA

Key Functions of the Veress Needle

Safe Entry into the Abdominal Cavity

The needle’s spring-loaded mechanism ensures precise penetration through the abdominal wall while reducing risks of damaging internal organs. This design allows surgeons to create a small incision (typically 1–2 cm) at the umbilicus or other access points, followed by controlled gas insufflation.

Gas Insufflation for Optimal Visualization

By delivering CO₂ into the abdomen, the Veress needle expands the surgical field, elevating the abdominal wall away from internal organs. This creates a clear workspace for laparoscopic tools, enhancing visibility and maneuverability during procedures. The target intra-abdominal pressure is usually maintained at 12–15 mmHg.

Pressure Monitoring

Modern Veress needles integrate with insufflation systems to monitor real-time pressure changes, ensuring safe gas delivery and preventing overinflation, which could compromise cardiovascular or respiratory function.

Primary Uses in Surgical Practice

The Veress needle is indispensable in various laparoscopic interventions:

General Surgery: Used in cholecystectomy (gallbladder removal), appendectomy, and hernia repairs.

Gynecological Procedures: Facilitates access for ovarian cyst removal, hysterectomy, and endometriosis treatment.

Diagnostic Laparoscopy: Enables visual examination of abdominal organs to identify pathologies like adhesions or tumors.

Advantages Over Traditional Techniques

Compared to open surgery or blind trocar insertion, the Veress needle offers:

Minimized Trauma: Smaller incisions reduce postoperative pain and scarring.

Enhanced Safety: Reduced risk of accidental organ perforation.

Faster Recovery: Patients typically resume normal activities sooner.

Conclusion

The Veress needle revolutionized minimally invasive surgery by providing a reliable method to establish pneumoperitoneum safely. Its precision, safety mechanisms, and compatibility with advanced insufflation systems make it a cornerstone of modern laparoscopic practice. As surgical techniques evolve, innovations in needle design continue to prioritize patient outcomes and procedural efficiency.

Keywords: Veress needle, pneumoperitoneum, laparoscopic surgery, CO₂ insufflation, minimally invasive surgery