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VCU Medical Center goes high definition

Published on April 12, 2004 at 1:58 PM · No Comments

The startlingly clear images displayed by high definition televisions have attracted the attention of sports enthusiasts, movie fanatics, and video gamers. Now some surgeons at the Virginia Commonwealth University Medical Center are among the first in the country to use the technology to gain extraordinary views of the human anatomy.

The new 19-inch high definition screens and 1088 HD cameras are being used during minimally invasive surgical procedures in which doctors use small instruments and cameras inside the body to perform operations. The images are captured by an endoscope – a long tube with a light and camera attached – and displayed on monitors that surgeons view as they perform procedures.

VCU has purchased 17 HD camera systems and surgeons began using the imaging equipment in March.

“This is superior imaging for laparoscopic surgery where we are totally dependent on how well we can see to conduct the surgery,” said Eric Demaria, M.D., professor and chair of the Division of General Surgery and director of the Minimally Invasive Surgery Center at VCU. “The better the visualization – the better the technical aspects of the surgery can be accomplished – the better the outcome for the patient.”

Demaria said the crystal clear images allow surgeons to more easily identify anatomical structures because the high definition technology generates a greater depth of view – or three-dimensional effect. The enhanced images enable the surgeon to perform delicate instrument maneuvers more naturally and precisely, which may reduce operating time, thereby shortening the time a patient must remain under anesthesia.

The enhanced imaging offers other benefits as well. “We are able to use smaller endoscopes since the image quality is so good,” according to Demaria.

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