The Department of Plastic Surgery of Jawaharlal Institute of Postgraduate Medical Education and Research (Jipmer) has introduced an innovative approach to 3D surgical visualisation in cleft lip and palate surgery, using an adapted exoscope-like system to enhance the surgical field and facilitate advanced surgical training.

According to Jipmer, a team led by Professor S. Dinesh Kumar successfully performed a series of cleft lip and palate procedures using a 3D laparoscope mounted on a stabilised platform.

“The adapted setup provided magnified, high-quality, three-dimensional visualisation of the delicate anatomical structures of the lip and palate, while enabling the operating surgeon to work with a more ergonomic posture. This is particularly relevant in cleft surgery, where precise tissue handling and meticulous anatomical reconstruction are essential,” the institute said.

The system also enabled the entire surgical team and trainees to view the operative field simultaneously. Unlike conventional surgical arrangements, where the operating surgeon has the primary direct view and trainees may have limited visibility, the magnified 3D surgical field could be simultaneously viewed by the entire operating team. This facilitates better understanding of surgical anatomy, operative steps and techniques.

The initiative demonstrates the innovative adaptation of existing technology for advanced surgical applications, particularly in procedures involving fine and delicate anatomy and highlights the potential of exoscope-based 3D visualisation to support clinical practice and surgical training, Jipmer said.