Quantitative ENT-endoscopy: the future in the new millenium

摘要

In Otorhinolaryngology the endoscopic appraisal of luminal dimensions of the nose, th throat, the larynx and the trachea is a daily problem. Those concerned with endoscopy know, that endoscopes distort dimensions of examined anatomical structures. To draw conclusions on luminal dimensions from the endoscopic pictures additional measuring devices are required. We developed a new method of measuring luminal dimensions in rigid or flexible endoscopy. For this a laser beam directed radially marks the anatomical lumen of interest in the videoendoscopic vision. The laser ring becomes deformed according to the form of the cavity explored. By keeping the distance defined between the laser ring and the tip of the endoscope, the endoscopic video image can be measured. A piece of software developed by us calculates from the pictures the cross sectional area as well as the extension of benign or malign stenosis of the cavity explored. The result of the endoscopic measuring procedure can be visualized three-dimensionally on a PC-monitor. We are going to demonstrate the results of our clinical experience in different otorhinolaryngological diseases with the new endoscopic measuring kit in comparison to standard endoscopy. A further perspective is the endoscopic assisted manufacturing (EAM) of anatomical adapted stents, tubes and cannules.