Three-dimensional laparoscopic surgery: a revolutionary technique or a transitional technique

Three-dimensional (3D) laparoscopic surgery has been developed rapidly in China since 2012. Based on mature two-dimensional (2D) laparoscopic surgery, 3D laparoscopic surgery has the same technique as 2D, with similar indication as 2D as well. However, 3D laparoscopic surgery can offer better depth description, more accurate spatial location, and less error in operation. It might offer better visional experience if hybrid with virtual reality or with 4K in the future. But in current status, laparoscopy with 3D technique is only a technique with innovation, but not a revolutionary technique. Key words: Gastrointestinal neoplasms; Surgical procedures, operative; Laparoscopy; Tree-dimensional technique