4-mm-diameter three-dimensional imaging endoscope with steerable camera for minimally invasive surgery (3-D-MARVEL)

Area of Science:

• Medical Endoscopy
• Surgical Imaging Technology
• Minimally Invasive Surgery

Background:

• High-resolution 3-D (stereo) imaging is crucial for minimally invasive surgery, particularly in confined surgical fields like neurosurgery.
• Current stereo imaging endoscopes typically exceed 4-mm in diameter, limiting their application in space-constrained procedures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a compact, 4-mm diameter stereo imaging endoscope for enhanced visualization in minimally invasive surgery.
• To introduce a novel endoscope system capable of side-to-side panning for improved surgical maneuverability.

Main Methods:

• Development of a single-lens stereo imaging endoscope, termed Multiangle, Rear-Viewing Endoscopic Tool (MARVEL).
• Integration of complementary multibandpass filter (CMBF) technology for achieving 3-D imaging.
• Incorporation of a side-to-side panning actuation mechanism within the endoscope.

Main Results:

• Successful development of a 4-mm diameter endoscope capable of high-resolution 3-D imaging.
• Demonstration of a unique side-to-side panning capability over a specific angular range.
• Integration of a single-lens CMBF camera with illumination and actuation mechanisms.

Conclusions:

• The MARVEL endoscope offers a significant advancement in compact 3-D surgical visualization.
• This technology has the potential to improve surgical precision and outcomes in space-constrained procedures.
• The developed endoscope provides a unique combination of 3-D imaging and maneuverability for surgical applications.