Utility of 4 K three-dimensional endoscopic system in performing video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery lobectomy: initial results of the first year after installation

Objectives With the evolution of technology in the field of thoracoscopy, three-dimensional (3D) endoscopic systems with 4 K resolution have recently come into use. This study aimed to determine perioperative outcomes of video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) lobectomy performed a year after the 4 K three-dimensional (3D) endoscopic system installation and compare them with those of the high-definition (HD) 3D endoscopic system. Methods We included patients who underwent complete VATS (cVATS) lobectomy for primary lung cancer using an HD3D endoscopic system (HD3D group, June 2015–September 2021, n = 251) or 4K3D endoscopic system (4K3D group, October 2021–September 2022, n = 47). The perioperative outcomes were compared between the two groups. Results The operation time was significantly shorter in the 4K3D group (mean, 189.5 min) than in the HD3D group (208.5 min; p = 0.021), and the 4K3D group did not require conversion to thoracotomy or transfusion. The 4K3D group had less blood loss volume (4K3D group: mean, 24.0 mL vs. HD3D group: 43.3 mL; p = 0.105) and shorter chest drainage duration (4K3D group: mean, 2.3 days vs. HD3D group: 3.1 days; p = 0.115) and hospitalization period (4K3D group: mean, 7.9 days vs. HD3D group:10.0 days; p = 0.226) than the HD3D group, with no significant difference. No difference was observed in the incidence of ≥ Grade IIIa complications ( p = 0.634). Conclusion The 4K3D endoscopic system significantly shortened the duration of cVATS lobectomy. It is useful for lung resection and may replace other endoscopy systems.