A single-imager stereoscopic endoscope

We have developed a 5.5mm and 10mm dual optical channel laparoscope that combines both exit channels into a single, standard, endoscopic eye cup which attaches directly to a single, conventional HD camera head. We have also developed image processing software that auto-calibrates, aligns, enhances and processes the image so that it can be displayed on a stereo/3D display to achieve a true 3D effect. The advantages to the end user for such a 3D system are that they do not have to purchase a new camera system, all of their existing scopes are still available to use, as are all integrated OR features. They will be able to add 3D capability to current HD system by purchasing only stereo scopes and a small video processing computer box and adding a 2D/3D HD capable monitor.