Video-Assisted Telescope Operating Monitor 3D System in Microsurgical Varicocelectomy: A Preliminary Report

Area of Science:

• Minimally Invasive Surgery
• Urology
• Surgical Technology

Background:

• The Video-assisted telescope operating monitor (VITOM®) with 3D Visualization technology is an advanced surgical visualization tool.
• This technology has demonstrated favorable outcomes across various surgical disciplines.
• Its application in microsurgical varicocelectomy is explored in this preliminary report.

Purpose of the Study:

• To report the initial experience of using the VITOM® 3D system for microsurgical varicocelectomy.
• To evaluate the feasibility and preliminary outcomes of this technology in varicocele treatment.

Main Methods:

• Thirty-five microsurgical varicocelectomy procedures were conducted using the VITOM® 3D system.
• The system features a standalone camera head with an integrated 3D telescope, offering zoom and focus control.
• Procedures were performed with the option of using magnifying loupes alongside the exoscope, with varicocele ligation utilizing a microscope.

Main Results:

• The study included 35 male patients with an average age of 31.51 years, most presenting with grade 3 bilateral varicocele.
• All procedures were completed without intraoperative complications.
• Postoperative complications were minimal, including scrotal edema (8.6%) and hydrocele (2.9%), with very low reported postoperative pain.

Conclusions:

• The VITOM® 3D system demonstrates potential as an effective tool for microsurgical varicocelectomy.
• The initial experience suggests a favorable safety profile and efficacy in treating varicoceles.