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Published on: November 7, 2020
Using a 4K three-dimensional exoscope system (Vitom 3D) for mastoid surgery during the coronavirus disease 2019
M Ally1, P Kullar1, G Mochloulis1
1Department of ENT Surgery, Lister Hospital, Coreys Mill Ln, Stevenage SG1 4AB, East and North Hertfordshire NHS Trust, UK.
Objective:
Microscopic surgery is currently considered the 'gold standard' for middle-ear, mastoid and lateral skull base surgery. The coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic has made microscopic surgery more challenging to perform. This work aimed to demonstrate the feasibility of the Vitom 3D system, which integrates a high-definition (4K) view and three-dimensional technology for ear surgery, within the context of the pandemic.
Method:
Combined approach tympanoplasty and ossiculoplasty were performed for cholesteatoma using the Vitom 3D system exclusively.
Results:
Surgery was performed successfully. The patient made a good recovery, with no evidence of residual disease at follow up. The compact system has excellent depth of field, magnification and colour. It enables ergonomic work, improved work flow, and is ideal for teaching and training.
Conclusion:
The Vitom 3D system is considered a revolutionary alternative to microscope-assisted surgery, particularly in light of coronavirus disease 2019. It allows delivery of safe otological surgery, which may aid in continuing elective surgery.
Insights
The Vitom 3D system offers a viable alternative for ear surgery, enhancing safety and workflow during the COVID-19 pandemic. This high-definition 3D technology provides excellent visualization and ergonomic benefits for otological procedures.
Area of Science:
- Otolaryngology
- Surgical Technology
- Medical Imaging
Background:
- Microscopic surgery is the standard for middle-ear, mastoid, and lateral skull base procedures.
- The COVID-19 pandemic presents challenges for traditional microscopic ear surgery.
- The Vitom 3D system offers high-definition (4K) and 3D visualization for surgical applications.
Purpose of the Study:
- To assess the feasibility of the Vitom 3D system for ear surgery during the COVID-19 pandemic.
- To evaluate the Vitom 3D system as an alternative to microscope-assisted surgery.
- To determine if the Vitom 3D system facilitates safe and continued elective otological surgery.
Main Methods:
- Combined approach tympanoplasty and ossiculoplasty were performed.
- The Vitom 3D system was used exclusively for the surgical procedures.
- Cholesteatoma was the primary indication for surgery.
Main Results:
- Successful surgical outcomes were achieved.
- The patient demonstrated a good recovery with no residual disease.
- The Vitom 3D system provided excellent depth of field, magnification, and color rendition.
- The system facilitated ergonomic work and improved workflow.
- The system is suitable for teaching and training purposes.
Conclusions:
- The Vitom 3D system is a revolutionary alternative to microscope-assisted ear surgery.
- It is particularly relevant in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic.
- The system enables the safe delivery of otological surgery, potentially supporting the continuation of elective procedures.
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