Three-dimensional versus two-dimensional video-assisted thoracic surgery for thoracic disease: a meta-analysis

Area of Science:

• Thoracic Surgery
• Minimally Invasive Surgery
• Surgical Technology

Background:

• Video-assisted thoracic surgery (VATS) is a minimally invasive approach for thoracic diseases.
• The maneuverability and efficacy of 3D systems in VATS remain under investigation.
• Comparing 3D VATS with conventional 2D VATS is crucial for understanding advancements.

Purpose of the Study:

• To systematically review and meta-analyze the efficacy and safety of 3D VATS versus 2D VATS.
• To evaluate key surgical outcomes and patient safety metrics.
• To determine the clinical utility of 3D VATS in thoracic surgery.

Main Methods:

• Systematic literature search across multiple databases (PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, etc.) up to December 2016.
• Inclusion of seven studies involving 1080 patients (525 in 3D VATS, 555 in 2D VATS).
• Meta-analysis using odds ratios and mean differences to compare continuous and dichotomous variables.

Main Results:

• 3D VATS demonstrated significantly shorter operation times (SMD = -0.66, P < 0.001) and less blood loss (MD = -12.12, P < 0.001).
• Postoperative drainage duration was significantly reduced with 3D VATS (SMD = -0.53, P = 0.008).
• No significant differences were observed in postoperative hospital stay, total drainage volume, lymph node dissection, or complication rates.

Conclusions:

• 3D VATS is a potentially viable and effective method for treating thoracic diseases.
• The findings suggest 3D VATS may offer advantages in terms of efficiency and blood loss.
• Further research may solidify the role of 3D VATS in future thoracic surgical practice.