First intraoperative experience with three-dimensional (3D) high-definition (HD) nasal endoscopy for lacrimal surgeries

The aim of this study is to report our preliminary experiences with regard to safety and feasibility of three-dimensional (3D) endoscopic lacrimal surgeries with a recently launched latest generation 3D endoscope. A 4-mm rigid three-dimensional (3D) endoscope (TIPCAM 1S 3D ORL^R, Karl Storz, Tuttlingen, Germany) was used. Fifteen patients who underwent various endoscopic lacrimal procedures by a single surgeon (MJA) were included. The procedures included probing with nasolacrimal intubation, cruciate marsupialization of intranasal cysts for congenital dacryoceles, powered endoscopic dacryocystorhinostomy, post-operative stent removal with ostium granuloma excision. The implementation, visualization, optical performance, ease of tissue handling and complications were noted. Ten surgical observers filled a questionnaire to rate their experiences. Enhanced depth perception was found to be very beneficial intraoperatively. Greater anatomical delineation facilitated improved hand–eye coordination and dexterity. Intraoperative assessment and handling of tissues and surgical manoeuvring were precise and did not require the additional spatial cues that the surgeon derives from a two-dimensional image. These benefits were more appreciated in the complex cases. The setup was easy on previous endoscopic platforms and did not consume any additional time. All the surgical procedures were completed successfully without any complications. The surgical observers unanimously noted enhanced anatomical understanding and surgical learning as compared to the routine 2D planes. Operating in 3D planes enhances depth perception, dexterity and precision. Although initial results are promising, further randomized studies with head-on comparisons between 3D and 2D would help formulate specific guidelines.