Three-dimensional video-assisted thoracoscopic pericardiectomy

Video-assisted thoracic surgery has proven to be safe and effective for the diagnosis and management of pericardial disease. Three-dimensional (3-D) video imaging technology has been developed to allow the laparoscopic surgeon more precision and efficiency in advanced laparoscopic cases. This case report describes the marriage of 3-D video imaging and thoracoscopy that allowed performance of a technically difficult pericardiectomy without incident. Our aim is to describe the use of state-of-the-art 3-D video imaging to allow success in difficult cases.