Published online by Cambridge University Press: 10 January 2022
Three-dimensional endoscopes provide a stereoscopic view of the operating field, facilitating depth perception compared to two-dimensional systems, but are not yet widely accepted. Existing research addresses performance and preference, but there are no studies that quantify anatomical orientation in endoscopic ear surgery.
Participants (n = 70) were randomised in starting with either the two-dimensional or three-dimensional endoscope system to perform one of two tasks: anatomical orientation using a labelled three-dimensional printed silicone model of the middle ear, or simulated endoscopic skills. Scores and time to task completion were recorded, as well as self-reported difficulty, confidence and preference.
Novice surgeons scored significantly higher in a test of anatomical orientation using three-dimensional compared to two-dimensional endoscopy (p < 0.001), with no significant difference in the speed of simulated endoscopic skills task completion. For both tasks, there was lower self-reported difficulty and increased confidence when using the three-dimensional endoscope. Participants preferred three-dimensional over two-dimensional endoscopy for both tasks.
The findings demonstrate the superiority of three-dimensional endoscopy in anatomical orientation, specific to endoscopic ear surgery, with statistically indistinguishable performance in a skills task using a simulated trainer.
Dr O Denton takes responsibility for the integrity of the content of the paper
Presented orally at the 3rd World Congress on Endoscopic Ear Surgery, 14 June 2019, Boston, Massachusetts, USA.