A technique for real-time digital measurements in laparoscopic surgery

Background: The current techniques for the measurement of intracorporeal targets in laparoscopic surgery are relatively cumbersome and imprecise. Methods: A structured light technique was used to obtain the length and width of two defects and an object in a laparoscopic training box. These measurements were compared against two current and standard laparoscopic techniques of intracorporeal measurement: the introduction of a plastic ruler and the use of an opened end of a laparoscopic instrument to approximate 2 cm. The time needed to measure the defects and object was recorded. Results: Structured light-derived measurements were closest to the criterion standard, followed by plastic ruler measurements, then by instrument-end measurements. Digital measurements were quickest, followed by the instrument-end method, then by the plastic ruler. Conclusions: This report describes a novel structured light technique for laparoscopic measurement of intracorporeal targets capable of producing results superior to those of current techniques.