Use of 3D visualization system in deep sclerectomy: preliminary results from a pilot study

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Surgical Technology
• Medical Visualization

Background:

• Glaucoma is a leading cause of irreversible blindness worldwide.
• Non-penetrating glaucoma surgery, such as deep sclerectomy (DS), is a common surgical intervention.
• Traditional surgical visualization methods may have limitations in precision and surgeon ergonomics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To evaluate the application and benefits of three-dimensional (3D) visualization technology during deep sclerectomy (DS).
• To assess improvements in surgical ergonomics, operative precision, and educational potential using 3D visualization in DS.
• To compare surgical outcomes and operative times between 3D-assisted DS and conventional methods.

Main Methods:

• A prospective study involving 12 patients with open-angle glaucoma undergoing DS with 3D visualization.
• Comparison of operative times with a historical cohort of patients who underwent DS using a conventional optical microscope.
• Administration of an educational questionnaire to ophthalmology trainees to assess satisfaction with 3D technology.

Main Results:

• 3D visualization in DS provided enhanced visualization of critical anatomical structures.
• Surgeons reported improved postural comfort and better team-wide surgical field sharing.
• No intraoperative perforations occurred; operative times were comparable to conventional methods (median 45.0 min vs. 44.6 min).
• Trainees reported a high satisfaction score (mean 4.23/5).

Conclusions:

• Integration of 3D visualization in DS offers significant advantages in surgical precision and ergonomics.
• The educational potential of 3D technology in surgical training for DS is substantial.
• Further controlled prospective studies are warranted to validate long-term clinical outcomes.