Comparison of operation microscope and exoscope in ear surgery

Introduction Beside operation microscopes and endoscopes, exoscopes are available for ear surgery and are intended to offer a two-handed workflow with enhanced ergonomics. In this study, the use of operation microscopes during different ear surgeries is compared to an exoscope.

Material and Methods: During 68 ear surgeries (23 cochlear implants, 45 surgeries due to chronic otitis media), 31 of these with operation microscope (Zeiss Pentero 800, Zeiss Vario 700, Zeiss Vario S88) and 37 with exoscope (Storz Vitom 3D) the incision-suture-time, duration and number of intraoperative adjustments and pre- and postoperative set-up time were determined. Additionally, the users (operators and nurses) were asked for feedback on handling, visualization and ergonomics.

Results Regarding the peri- and intraoperative durations no significant differences between the systems were detected. The usage of the exoscope showed a steep learning curve. In subjective evaluation of the handling we saw notable interindividual differences. The rating of the visualization of middle ear structures was worse with the exoscope than with the microscope. Due to this, during 6 surgeries a change of the system from exoscope to microscope was necessary.

Conclusion Exoscopes are a promising addition to the visualization systems in ENT-surgery. Nevertheless, to be an acceptable alternative to operation microscopes, the visualization of deep structures has to be enhanced.

Poster-PDF A-1278.pdf

KARL STORZ SE & Co. KG, Tuttlingen

Conflict of interest

The first author points out the following conflict of interest: Die unentgeltliche Bereitstellung des Storz Vitom 3D sowie die Finanzierung der Studie erfolgte durch die KARL STORZ SE & Co. KG, Tuttlingen.

Publikationsverlauf

Artikel online veröffentlicht:
13. Mai 2021