2025 Poster Presentations
P181: OPTIMIZING IMAGING QUALITY IN ENDOSCOPIC ENDONASAL SURGERY: A COMPARISON OF THREE TECHNIQUES
Heros Almeida, MD; Dan Zimelewicz Oberman, MD, MSc; Maria Guevara, MD; Bianca Gomes, MD; João Paulo Almeida, MD, PhD; Department of Neurosurgery, Mayo Clinic, Jacksonville, FL
Purpose: Endoscopic endonasal surgery (EES) has revolutionized neurosurgery, enabling minimally invasive access to the skull base and surrounding structures. High-quality imaging is essential for these procedures to ensure precision and safety. This study compares three imaging techniques used in EES in cadaver dissection: the Storz endoscopic endonasal system (HD), the Laowa probe lens (24-mm), and an endoscope camera adapter, evaluating their image quality, cost, and practicality.
Methods: We evaluated imaging quality, ease of use, and overall effectiveness of each technique during EES procedures performed on cadaver dissections. Criteria included resolution, color accuracy, depth of field, and practicality in a surgical setting. Images were captured under similar conditions for each technique, and the results were analyzed to highlight their strengths and weaknesses.
Results: The Storz Endoscopic Endonasal System (HD) provided high-resolution images with excellent color accuracy and depth of field but lacked adequate focus quality, potentially affecting clarity and precision. The Laowa Probe Lens (24-mm) offered impressive close-up images with superior resolution and low-light performance. Despite its higher cost and the need for an additional camera, it provided detailed visualization of intricate structures. Optimal focus was challenging, requiring adjustments and expertise. The endoscope camera adapter presented as a practical and cost-effective solution, delivering better image quality than the Storz system, though not as high as the Laowa lens. It provided sufficient visualization for most surgical tasks, with affordability and ease of use being key advantages.
Conclusion: Choosing the appropriate imaging technique for EES involves considering budget, required image quality, and specific surgical needs. By understanding the strengths and limitations of each method, surgeons can make informed decisions to enhance their practice and improve patient outcomes.