Validation and verification of three-dimensional systems in laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy

Abstract

Aim: The three-dimensional (3D) visualization system has been introduced for the technical improvement of laparoscopic surgery, but clinical evidence for its usefulness is lacking. This study aimed to evaluate the usefulness of a 3D system in laparoscopic surgery. Patients and Methods: Between 2015 and 2016, a randomized controlled trial was performed on 61 patients who underwent laparoscopic distal pancreatectomy. The primary outcome was the shortening of operative time. The hospital course, number of technical errors, and clinicians’ subjective scores were compared as secondary outcome. Results: There were no significant differences in operative times, hospital course and technical errors. However, depth perception was significantly improved and physical demand was reduced in the 3D group. These advantages became clearer in the later period of the study, with longer operative times, and in spleen-preserving procedures. Conclusion: Subjective scoring through 3D systems was significantly superior, which might lead to better surgical performance in difficult cases.