Three-dimensional Versus Two-dimensional Laparoscopic Surgery for Colorectal Cancer: Systematic Review and Meta-analysis

Three-dimensional (3D) laparoscopy is being steadily adopted instead of two-dimensional (2D) for various procedures. Our aim was to compare the outcomes between 2D and 3D laparoscopic procedures for colorectal cancer in order to ascertain the safety, efficacy and potential advantages of 3D imaging systems. A systematic database search was conducted in March 2019. Comparative studies reporting clinical outcomes between patients undergoing elective colorectal procedures using either 2D or 3D laparoscopic equipment were eligible. Six studies were selected, including 614 patients in total. Minor reduction in operative time, similar blood loss and increased number of harvested lymph nodes was noted for the 3D group. There was no difference for conversion to open surgery, time to flatus, postoperative hospital stay or postoperative complications. 3D Laparoscopic surgery for colorectal cancer may result in reduction of operative time and higher lymph node yields, leading to improved survival.