[Uses of endoscopic video-camera in open surgery].

OBJECTIVES: To describe a method to obtain images of open surgery at the lowest possible cost. The images provide useful information for patient records and teaching. METHODS: We have utilized a submersible endoscopic camera with no special features, close up lenses or automatic focussing device and a color printer. RESULTS: The quality of the images are similar to those obtained with a more sophisticated video camera. The pictures were processed with a video printer. CONCLUSIONS: We believe that using the endoscopic camera in open surgery is a low-cost alternative to the more sophisticated video camera systems.