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attempts required for them to achieve proficiency. We also surveyed them with a
questionnaire afterward.
In each of the exercises, the participants averaged greater speeds to comple-
tion with 3D visualization, by a wide margin. Regardless of their level of laparo-
scopic expertise, they made fewer errors in 3D. Fewer participants required
multiple attempts to reach proficiency using 3D.
We found no differences in participants' reports of eye strain, headaches or
other physiological side effects after using each visual modality. Subjectively
speaking, nearly 88% of the participants preferred the 3D view. It stands to rea-
son that a visualization technology that improves skill and that physicians are
comfortable with can deliver more efficient and more cost-effective surgeries.
2. More information
The value of 3D surgical imaging isn't limited to training or improving tech-
niques. In urological, general, orthopedic, spine and neuro cases, among other
specialties, real-time 3D guidance provides more anatomical information and
improves the navigation of anatomy.
Consider the radical prostatectomy, a delicate operation. Depth perception in
the laparoscopic view can help the surgeon exercise extreme caution around
the area's vascular bundles.
Or imagine how a 3D C-arm's ability to construct a pre-operative or intra-
operative model of a patient's anatomy from a series of fluoroscopic images
can provide immense assistance. Spine surgeons will be able to verify and cor-
rect the placement of implant screws during a procedure, for example, and
not have to wait for post-op CT scans and potential reoperations. Physicians
preparing to undertake a partial nephrectomy would know with greater cer-
tainty the proximity of a tumor to arteries and veins, knowledge that is critical
to the extrication and reconstruction.
The power that 3D imaging brings to pre-op planning and intraop action can't
be overstated. As more laparoscopic specialists become more familiar with the
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