Nick Marut, RNFA, CNOR, at University Hospitals Harrington Heart & Vascular Institute in Cleveland, Ohio, sat down with Tim Mulcahy to share his approach to switching to the Venapax system from a legacy device.

Tim Mulcahy: You were already proficient on the leading EVH device. Why switch to a new system?

Nick: I knew that one of my associates, Kevin Jenkins, was using Venapax and I wanted to experience it in real time. I was impressed initially with the single component design, and thought it made the most sense with regards to efficiently harvesting conduit. Seeing it being used immediately grabbed my interest. Routinely using a different major harvesting system with multiple components, I was attracted to the idea and reality of providing pristine quality conduit more efficiently. I then found myself in that OR using the Venapax system initially under Kevin’s guidance, then independently. The system proved to be incredibly beneficial, and I was confidently harvesting conduit within 10 cases.

Tim Mulcahy: You have your choice of multiple EVH systems on the shelf, why choose to train new assistants on Venapax?

Nick: I was confident that the Venapax system could provide quality conduit in a shorter period of time. The other system being used incorporates multiple components, significantly lengthening the learning curve. I know that initially I personally struggled with the multiple component design of the legacy device. I believe Venapax’s allin- one design eliminates this struggle. The design of the cone tip lessens the chance of conduit injury. The conduit- focused view helped me, and other harvesters easily identify branches and vasa vasorums leading to a drier tunnel with less chance of injury. The bipolar design has little to no thermal spread which seemed to be a problem with the other system.

Tim Mulcahy: With regards to learning curves, how long did it take you to feel comfortable with the new system?

Nick: It took roughly 10 cases where I was truly confident with Venapax. By my 5th case I was comfortable, but still wanted Kevin there for technical support. Being efficient with the other system, I found it imperative to stay consistent knowing there is always a learning curve. Repetition is key to any success. This system just required less repetition to be successful.

Tim Mulcahy: What’s the mindset one should have when approached with the opportunity to learn Venapax?

Nick: You have to be opened minded. Changes are inevitable, and often times better. Medicine is always changing. Consistency and persistence is key to learning any skill. Saphena provides many on-line videos that can be helpful. I’m confident that once learned, harvesters can produce excellent quality conduit efficiently with Venapax. Myself, and other colleagues of mine, prove this point.