Photogrammetry and Videogrammetry 3D Scanning Algorithm in Endoscopic Endonasal Pituitary Surgery: Anatomy Laboratory Investigation and Intraoperative Application.

BACKGROUND AND

OBJECTIVES

Endoscopic endonasal surgery (EEA) is a standard approach for treating pituitary tumors, requiring a specialized operating room setup, surgical skills and technique, and step-by-step protocol. This translational study optimizes different algorithms of photogrammetry (PGM) and videogrammetry (VGM) to create interactive 3D models for EEA while maintaining intraoperative efficiency, sterility, and data privacy. This investigation aimed to implement an optimal and efficient intraoperative endoscopic PGM and VGM algorithm to generate detailed and interactive 3D models of key surgical steps, EEA, without compromising sterility and efficiency.

METHODS

PGM and VGM were first tested in an anatomy laboratory to refine an algorithm for endoscopic scanning. Eighty photographs or 2 minutes of endoscopic video were sufficient to create 3D models. Later, this approach was applied intraoperatively in EEA. Patient positioning and important surgical steps were scanned using a smartphone camera (2-dimensional photographs and LiDAR sensor) and a high-definition 30° endoscope video was recorded with an endoscopic camera. A dedicated PGM software enabling the creation of detailed 3D models was used.

RESULTS

Six 3D anatomic and intraoperative models were developed, illustrating key surgical steps, anatomic landmarks, and the operative environment from various endoscopic perspectives. The process maintained intraoperative sterility and efficiency. Two explanatory videos were produced.

CONCLUSION

PGM and VGM offer an effective, intraoperative 3D data acquisition tool in EEA. These techniques enhance surgical documentation and training by providing high-resolution, interactive models offering a detailed understanding of the operative corridor and critical procedural steps without compromising safety, sterility, or the time of the surgical procedure.