The Use of Three-dimensional Visualization Techniques for Prostate Procedures: A Systematic Review.

Area of Science:

• Medical Technology
• Surgical Innovation
• Oncology

Background:

• Three-dimensional (3D) visualization is an emerging technique increasingly used in medical fields.
• It offers potential benefits for education, training, surgical planning, and intraoperative guidance in prostate cancer surgery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the impact of 3D printing, virtual reality (VR), and augmented reality (AR) on prostate cancer procedures.
• Specifically focusing on prostate biopsy and radical prostatectomy (RP).

Main Methods:

• A systematic review was conducted following PRISMA criteria.
• Two independent investigators screened and selected studies.
• A total of 27 studies were included after reviewing 541 identified papers.

Main Results:

• Nine studies utilized 3D reconstructed models for education/training and guidance.
• Nine studies explored VR for simulation training and intraoperative guidance.
• Nine studies focused on AR, particularly for robotic-assisted radical prostatectomy guidance.

Conclusions:

• 3D visualization techniques are developing for prostate cancer procedures.
• These technologies show potential for education, training, surgical planning, and intraoperative guidance.
• More prospective studies are required to validate their clinical utility and widespread adoption.