Three-dimensional endoscopic imaging for minimal access surgery

Three-dimensional endoscopic imaging (3DEndoImaging) is a significant technological advance and has the potential to make minimal access surgery (MAS) easier, quicker, less prone to error and more applicable to advanced procedures. Surgeons involved in MAS will need to have a working knowledge of 3DEndoImaging. This article will enable surgeons to compare stereo systems and evaluate which system would best suit their needs. This paper explains why stereo imaging is important and describes the methods by which stereo images can be produced. The technology required is discussed in simple terms. The types of stereo systems are described and important operational and maintenance issues discussed. Task analysis studies showing significant improvement in performance in stereo are presented. These studies simulated accurately positioning an instrument and threading a small diameter solder lug.