Three-dimensional imaging improves surgical performance for both novice and experienced operators using the da Vinci Robot System.

BACKGROUND: This study was designed to evaluate the impact of 3-dimensional vision on the performance of resident and experienced surgeons using the da Vinci Robot System (Intuitive Surgical, Sunnyvale, CA).
METHODS: Four tasks were performed by 12 surgeons with varying experience. Performance times and errors were recorded using both 2-dimensional and 3-dimensional vision for each task.
RESULTS: Performance time and error rates for all 4 skills confirm a significant advantage using 3-dimensional vision. Performance times were reduced by 34% to 46% using 3-dimensional imaging for all participants with statistical significance. Error rates were reduced by 44% and 66%.
CONCLUSION: Independent of the biomechanical advantages of the da Vinci Robot System, 3-dimensional vision allows for significant improvement in performance times and error rates for both inexperienced residents and advanced laparoscopic surgeons.