Endoscopy 1999; 31(9): 732-737
DOI: 10.1055/s-1999-80
Original Article
Georg Thieme Verlag Stuttgart ·New York

Three-Dimensional (3-D) Video Systems: Bi-Channel or Single-Channel Optics?

P. van Bergen, W. Kunert, G. F. Buess
  • Section for Minimally Invasive Surgery, Eberhard-Karls-University Tübingen, Tübingen, Germany
Further Information

Publication History

Publication Date:
31 December 1999 (online)

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Background and Study Aims: This paper presents the results of a comparison between two different three-dimensional (3-D) video systems, one with single-channel optics, the other with bi-channel optics. The latter integrates two lens systems, each transferring one half of the stereoscopic image; the former uses only one lens system, similar to a two-dimensional (2-D) endoscope, which transfers the complete stereoscopic picture.

Material and Methods: In our training centre for minimally invasive surgery, surgeons were involved in basic and advanced laparoscopic courses using both a 2-D system and the two 3-D video systems. They completed analog scale questionnaires in order to record a subjective impression of the relative convenience of operating in 2-D and 3-D vision, and to identify perceived deficiencies in the 3-D system. As an objective test, different experimental tasks were developed, in order to measure performance times and to count pre-defined errors made while using the two 3-D video systems and the 2-D system.

Results and Conclusion: Using the bi-channel optical system, the surgeon has a heightened spatial perception, and can work faster and more safely than with a single-channel system. However, single-channel optics allow the use of an angulated endoscope, and the free rotation of the optics relative to the camera, which is necessary for some operative applications.

References

P. van BergenM.D. 

Section for Minimally Invasive Surgery

Eberhard-Karls-Universität Tübingen

Waldhoernlestrasse 22

72072 Tübingen

Germany

Phone: + 49-7071-295569

Email: patrick@van-bergen.de