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


METHODS
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.


RESULTS
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.


CONCLUSIONS
With further refinement of the technology, the 3D system may improve its potential in laparoscopic surgery.
Chan
A C
AC
Department of Surgery, Prince of Wales Hospital, The Chinese University of Hong Kong, Shatin, Hong Kong.
Chung
S C
SC
Yim
A P
AP
Lau
J Y
JY
Ng
E K
EK
Li
A K
AK
D005069:Evaluation Studies as Topic; D020706:Laparoscopes; D010535:Laparoscopy / Q000706:statistics & numerical data; D011446:Prospective Studies; D018709:Statistics, Nonparametric; D013997:Time Factors; D014741:Video Recording / Q000295:instrumentation* / Q000706:statistics & numerical data