Preliminary experience with a 4K-three-dimensional ultra-high-definition exoscopic system in otolaryngology surgery

Abstract

The 4K-three-dimensional (3D) exoscope system can observe the surgical field finely and in three dimensions using special glasses for high-precision digital images. In otolaryngology, this approach is suitable for tympanoplasty and laryngoscopic microsurgery, which are performed under a microscope or endoscope. We herein report the features of a 4K-3D exoscope system (OLYMPUS ORBEYE) used for tympanoplasty (Type I), laryngoscopic microsurgery, and hemithyroidectomy. Compared to microscopic surgery, this system allows not only surgical assistants but also visitors (e.g. residents or medical students) to perform surgery while sharing stereoscopic images. It has a number of advantages as well as educational aspects and is very useful as a surgical system in the field of otolaryngology and head and neck surgery.