Comparison of two-dimensional vs three-dimensional camera systems in laparoscopic surgery

• Published in: Surgical endoscopy Vol. 11; no. 5; pp. 438 - 440
• Main Authors: CHAN, A. C. W, CHUNG, S. C. S, YIM, A. P. C, LAU, J. Y. W, NG, E. K. W, LI, A. K. C
• Format: Conference Proceeding Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: New York, NY Springer 01-05-1997
• Subjects: Biological and medical sciences; Endoscopy; Evaluation Studies as Topic; Investigative techniques, diagnostic techniques (general aspects); Laparoscopes; Laparoscopy - statistics & numerical data; Medical sciences; Miscellaneous. Technology; Prospective Studies; Statistics, Nonparametric; Time Factors; Video Recording - instrumentation; Video Recording - statistics & numerical data; Human; Two dimensional system; Technology; Treatment efficiency; Instrumentation therapy; Three dimensional system; Laparoscopic surgery; Movie camera; Comparative study
• ISSN: 0930-2794; 1432-2218
• DOI: 10.1007/s004649900385

The lack of depth perception and spatial orientation in video vision are the drawbacks of laparoscopic surgery. The advent of a three-dimensional camera system enables surgeons to regain binocular vision and may be advantageous in complex laparoscopic procedures.
We prospectively studied two groups of surgeons (with and without experiences in laparoscopic surgery) who performed a designated standardized laparoscopic task using a two-dimensional camera system (Olympus OTV-S4) vs a three-dimensional camera system (Baxter-V. Mueller VS7700) and compared their time performances.
The results suggested that only experience in laparoscopic surgery had significant effect on individual's performance. We could not demonstrate any superiority of the 3D system over the 2D system. However, two-thirds of the surgeons commented that the depth perception did improve.
With further refinement of the technology, the 3D system may improve its potential in laparoscopic surgery.