4K ultra HD technology reduces operative time and intraoperative blood loss in colorectal laparoscopic surgery [version 1; peer review: 2 approved]

Background: HD systems are routinely used in laparoscopic surgery, 4K ultra HD monitors are mainly available within specialized, high-volume laparoscopic centers. The higher resolution of 4K ultra HD video could upgrade the surgical performance improving intraoperative and post-operative outcomes. Methods: We performed a retrospective comparative analysis of intraoperative parameters and post-operative outcomes in a cohort of patients operated on for elective laparoscopic procedures for colo-rectal cancer during two different time frames: 2017 procedures performed using the Visera Elite full HD technology (® Olympus America, Medical) and the 2018 procedures performed the Visera 4K Ultra HD System (® Olympus America, Medical). Results: There was a statistically significant reduction in operative time in patients operated on with the 4K ultra HD technology compared to HD technology (p < 0.05). Intraoperative blood loss was significantly reduced in patients operated in 2018 (p < 0.05). There were no statistically significant differences in complication rate and postoperative outcomes between the two groups.