Comparison of direct monocular endoscopic, two- and three-dimensional display systems on surgical task performance in functional endoscopic sinus surgery

Abstract

The operating endoscope has been an important advance in nasal and sinus surgery. Most surgeons describing the technique have used direct monocular vision, though some have recently been using videoendoscopic technology. Video monitoring offers the possibility of bimanual instrument handling and 3D visualization, with the appropriate equipment. We performed a study involving 10 surgeons, in which performance in simulated FESS was evaluated for direct endoscopic vision and compared with 2D and 3D video monitor display systems. There was a statistically significant difference in task performance time (visualizing or removing three small rings placed in the nasal cavity) between the three techniques. The direct technique was performed most slowly, participants taking longer with this technique than with the other two to perform the tasks. The 2D technique was more rapid, with the 3D technique taking the shortest time (P < 0.05). We feel that there is a place for further evaluation of video monitor controlled endoscopic sinus surgery.