Exoscopic technology

Several exoscopic devices have been developed during the last decade to substitute the commonly used operating microscope. The exoscope is becoming more and more sophisticated thanks to technological advancements, such as the introduction of three-dimensional (3D) systems and the improvement of image quality in a 4K resolution. The main advantage of a three-dimensional exoscope system is in fact the perception of objects' volume and the depth of structures for planning, targeting, and controlling fine movements during various microsurgical procedures. Several technical characteristics differentiate these devices such as the magnification power, the depth of field, and the focal distance. Moreover, some important differences should be highlighted according to their portability, other than from an economic perspective. This chapter aims to provide a comprehensive analysis of technical characteristics of the exoscopic system to better understand its applicability in the various otolaryngology microsurgical procedures. Our experience developed mainly using the Vitom 3D exoscope, and for this season more details will be provided for this device.