The introduction of wide-angle 270° laparoscopy through a novel laparoscopic camera system

Area of Science:

• Minimally Invasive Surgery
• Surgical Technology
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Traditional laparoscopy has a limited 70° field of view (FOV), leading to complications from events outside the FOV.
• Fogging and smoke accumulation further impair visualization during laparoscopic procedures.
• A novel SurroundScope system expands FOV to 270° with side cameras and uses LED illumination to mitigate fogging and smoke.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the initial clinical experience and potential advantages of the SurroundScope system.
• To compare the SurroundScope system against traditional laparoscopy in terms of visualization and safety.

Main Methods:

• 27 laparoscopic surgeries were performed using the SurroundScope system at two medical centers.
• Surgeons and camera holders provided evaluations after each procedure.

Main Results:

• All 27 cases were completed successfully without adverse events.
• 133 potentially adverse events were identified in the expanded FOV, highlighting improved situational awareness.
• No fogging or significant smoke issues were reported, and camera holders noted improved ergonomics and reduced camera movement.

Conclusions:

• The SurroundScope system offers significant advantages over traditional laparoscopy, including expanded FOV, elimination of fogging, and negligible smoke.
• These benefits may enhance patient safety, reduce adverse events, and potentially shorten surgery duration.
• Further research is recommended to quantify the clinical benefits of this advanced laparoscopic technology.