Using both endoscope and exoscope in cleft soft palate surgery is not widespread, despite the potential advantages related to view magnification, ergonomic posture of the surgeon, and involvement of the surgical team.
A formalin fixed specimen was dissected to mimic the anatomical conditions of a cleft soft palate.
Ten young surgeons with limited experience in transoral surgery were involved in the exercitation on the specimen.
The exercitation consisted of 4 tasks: (1) device setting; (2) identification of muscle plane; (3) muscle suturing; (4) oral mucosa suturing.
Participants were timed while performing each task both with exoscope and endoscope and asked to fill in 2 questionnaires related to the visual systems used (NASA Task Load System TLS and VAS 1-10).
All surgeons completed the 4 tasks with both the endoscope and exoscope. The execution times were similar except for faster setting of the exoscope. Participants felt that completing surgical exercises using the exoscope required less physical, intellectual, and temporal efforts compared to the endoscope. The exoscope was also more appreciated for its handling, 3D visualization, and limited encumbrance.
Exoscope scored better both at NASA TLS and VAS 1-10 and required a faster setting than endoscope. Further clinical in-vivo studies are required to explore the advantages of these devices in cleft palate repair.
期刊介绍:
The Cleft Palate-Craniofacial Journal (CPCJ) is the premiere peer-reviewed, interdisciplinary, international journal dedicated to current research on etiology, prevention, diagnosis, and treatment in all areas pertaining to craniofacial anomalies. CPCJ reports on basic science and clinical research aimed at better elucidating the pathogenesis, pathology, and optimal methods of treatment of cleft and craniofacial anomalies. The journal strives to foster communication and cooperation among professionals from all specialties.