In patients undergoing video-assisted thoracic surgery for lung resection, does three-dimensional endoscopic vision provide superior clinical outcomes?

Abstract

A best evidence topic in thoracic surgery was written according to a structured protocol. The question addressed was whether the use of 3-dimensional endoscopic vision provides superior clinical outcomes to patients undergoing video-assisted thoracic surgery for lung resection. Altogether 231 unique papers were found using the reported search, of which 6 represented the best evidence to answer the clinical question. The authors, journal, date and country of publication, patient group studied, study type, relevant outcomes and results of these papers are tabulated. Four of the 6 papers demonstrated a statistically significant reduction in operative time, although this difference may not be of sufficient magnitude to be relevant clinically. There was no difference in any other outcomes assessed. We therefore conclude that, in patients undergoing video-assisted thoracic surgery for lung resection, 3-dimensional endoscopic vision has no demonstrable impact on perioperative or oncological outcomes, or cost, although it may reduce operative time.

Keywords: 3-Dimensional; Review; Thoracoscopic; Video-assisted thoracic surgery.