Three-dimensional neurostereoendoscopy: subjective and objective comparison to 2D

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Otolaryngology
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Current neuroendoscopic procedures use 2D endoscopes, lacking stereoscopic vision and depth perception.
• Existing 3D systems have faced adoption challenges despite theoretical advantages.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate a novel 3D endoscope against 2D endoscopy in neuroendoscopic procedures.
• To assess the impact of 3D visualization on surgical task performance and surgeon preference.

Main Methods:

• 33 neurosurgeons and skull-base otolaryngologists participated in a randomized simulator task paradigm.
• Participants completed trials using both 2D and 3D visualization, with objective measures of speed, efficiency, and errors.
• Surgeon preferences and demographic data were collected via questionnaire.

Main Results:

• 75% of participants preferred the 3D endoscope, with 87.5% finding it helpful for tasks.
• Subjects using 3D visualization showed significantly higher efficiency (p=0.04) in the second run.
• Both speed and efficiency improved significantly when transitioning from 2D to 3D and across simulator runs for 3D.

Conclusions:

• Subjective and objective data support the utility of 3D visualization in neuroendoscopy.
• Real-time, high-resolution binocular depth perception via 3D endoscopy is valuable for endoscopic skull base surgery.
• The novel 3D endoscope demonstrates potential to enhance neuroendoscopic procedures.