Three-Dimensional (3D) Vision: Does It Improve Laparoscopic Skills? An Assessment of a 3D Head-Mounted Visualization System.

Laparoscopic urologic procedures have become increasingly popular, but their widespread use has been limited by training issues. The use of 3-dimensional (3D) vision might aid in training and performance of laparoscopic tasks. The purpose of this study was to evaluate a 3D visual system used by novice laparoscopists. In this prospective, randomized study, 24 novice laparos-copists were evaluated on a validated and standardized laparoscopic task using both 2-dimensional (2D) and 3D visualization systems. The task was performed more rapidly with 3D visualization (108 vs. 127 seconds, P < .05). On subjective evaluations, participants believed the task was easier with the 3D system, and participants preferred the 3D system to the 2D system by a 2:1 margin. 3D visualization improves the learning curve for laparoscopic surgery. Surgeons should consider 3D systems when learning complex laparoscopic surgeries. Further evaluation of operative times and complications is needed in clinical studies.