LAUSR

Background. The recent development of stereoscopic images using 3‐dimensional monitors is expected to improve techniques for laparoscopic operation. Several studies have reported technical advantages in using 3‐dimensional monitors with regard to operative accuracy and working speed, but there are few reports that analyze forceps motions by 3‐dimensional optical tracking systems during standardized laparoscopic phantom tasks. We attempted to develop a 3‐dimensional motion analysis system for assessing laparoscopic tasks and to clarify the efficacy of using stereoscopic images from a 3‐dimensional monitor to track forceps movement during laparoscopy. Methods. Twenty surgeons performed 3 tasks (Task 1: a simple operation by the dominant hand, Task 2: a simple operation using both hands, Task 3: a complicated operation using both hands) under 2‐dimensional and 3‐dimensional systems. We tracked and recorded the motion of forceps tips with an optical marker captured by a 3‐dimensional position tracker. We analyzed factors such as forceps path lengths, operation times, and technical errors for each task and compared the results of 2‐dimensional and 3‐dimensional monitors. Results. Mean operation times and technical errors were improved significantly for all tasks performed under the 3‐dimensional system compared with the 2‐dimensional system; in addition, mean path lengths for the forceps tips were shorter for all tasks performed under the 3‐dimensional system. Conclusion. We found that stereoscopic images using a 3‐dimensional monitor improved operative techniques with regard to increased accuracy and shorter path lengths for forceps movement, which resulted in a shorter operation time for basic phantom laparoscopic tasks.