A Practice Survey to Compare and Identify the Usefulness of Neuroendoscope and Exoscope in the Current Neurosurgery Practice.

BACKGROUND

The present era is of new tools and technique. Handling of new challenges require, better understanding of microscopic anatomy, which requires better magnification and light. Microscope has played significant role in this, use of endoscope and introduction of exoscope have given new dimensions to this field.

AIM

This study aims to compare and see the advantages, disadvantages of endoscope with exoscope, will analyze the difference in terms of ergonomics, learning curve, opportunities for training, operating time, magnification, and image quality.

MATERIALS AND METHODS

This study was conducted in the Department of Neurosurgery, Bantane Hospital Fujita Health University, Japan. Apart from comparing the specifications of available systems, we conducted a worldwide survey of the two systems through sending questionnaire through mail collected responses and analyzed them.

RESULTS

Learning curve, magnification, image quality, and ergonomics favors exoscope but depth perception and maneuverability, hand eye coordination, tactile sensation, and usage of different angulation tubes favored endoscope to be superior to exoscope.

CONCLUSION

There is more scope for modifications and research in both the instruments. These instruments are not replacement of either and should be used according to their indications.