Part 2: Beyond the Naked Eye

How 3D Visualization Enhances Surgical Precision

In Part 1, we established that Totally Endoscopic Cardiac Surgery (TECS) represents the truly minimal end of the surgical spectrum by using a tiny, keyhole port instead of larger incisions. This naturally leads to an important question:

If the surgeon isn’t looking directly at the heart, how can they still perform such delicate repairs safely and accurately?

The answer is that the surgeon doesn’t just “look through” the hole – they use advanced technology that grants them superior vision compared to looking through any small opening.

Technology Driven Precision

In TECS, the procedure is entirely guided by an endoscope – a thin, specialized camera inserted through the small keyhole incision. At St. Elizabeth, we utilize the most advanced tools available: We are among the earliest adopters in the nation to integrate state-of-the-art 3D 4K endoscopic technology into our cardiac operating rooms.

This cutting-edge device provides unparalleled precision:

• 4K High-Definition Clarity: The endoscope provides a full high-resolution video feed, ensuring that tissues, valves and vessels are rendered with fidelity four times greater than standard HD.
• Magnification: The 3D camera magnifies the surgical field up to 5 times, revealing details that would be impossible to see through a tiny incision.

Why 3D Vision Changes Everything

Performing heart surgery through a tiny opening demands exceptional visibility. That’s where the 3D 4K system makes all the difference. Instead of relying on limited direct vision, surgeons see the heart in vivid detail on a high-definition screen, with a true-to-life perspective.

This advanced view allows every movement to be smooth and controlled, even during the most complex procedures. And because the surgeon remains right at the patient’s side – not at a remote console – the entire experience stays hands-on and personal.

“With traditional techniques, we often had to make larger incisions to see clearly through them,” says Dr. Mario Castillo-Sang, a Cardiac Surgeon at St. Elizabeth. “Now, with the 3D 4K endoscopy, we can operate through much smaller incisions, which means less pain and faster recovery – even for elderly or high-risk patients.”

How it Works

This state-of-the-art system uses two separate camera feeds to create a layered, three-dimensional image of the heart. Surgeons view this on a high-definition monitor while wearing specialized glasses, giving them a clear sense of space and detail inside the chest.

This enhanced perspective means instruments can be placed exactly where they need to be – whether repairing a delicate valve or navigating around coronary arteries and major vessels. The result? Greater accuracy, fewer adjustments and a smoother procedure for the patient.

Watch the video: Dr. Castillo-Sang explains how he uses 3D 4K endoscopic technology.

Precision Over Access

The future of heart surgery isn’t about bigger openings – it’s about smarter solutions. The sophisticated camera allows TECS to deliver unmatched accuracy and less disruption to the body.

“This approach redefines what minimally invasive really means,” explains Dr. Mario Castillo-Sang. “We’re thrilled to offer our patients safer procedures, faster recoveries and better outcomes. This technology augments the care we provide to our patients.”

See the Expertise

Precision matters when it comes to your heart. Trust yours to a surgeon with the skills to master 3D 4K endoscopic vision. Review Dr. Castillo-Sang’s full profile and learn about his commitment to advanced techniques. Call (859) 301-9010 to speak with a Nurse Navigator about scheduling with Dr. Castillo-Sang or one of our other expert cardiac surgeons.

Catch up on the series: You just read Part 2 of 6.

Read Introduction: Is Your “Minimally Invasive” Surgery Truly Minimal? 

Read Part 1: Minimally Invasive vs. Truly Minimal: Decoding the Difference in Cardiac Surgery

Up Next: Part 3: The Power of Preservation: Why “No Bone Cut” Means Faster Recovery