The authors describe a miniinvasive procedure in surgery of varicosities of the lower extremities. The objective is to reduce surgical trauma and improve the resulting cosmetic effect after extirpation of the great saphenous vein. The method was used in 9 patients of 35 operated between September ad December 1998. The initial experience with endoscopic dissection of the proximal portion of the saphenous vein is favourable. The tissue traumatization is smaller, haematomas do not develop of the thigh.

        Key words: minimally invasive surgery – varicosities of the lower extremities – endoscopic stripping of the great saphenous vein