Traditionally, laparoscopy has been based on 2-dimensional (2D) imaging, which has represented a considerable challenge for those approaching this technique. Thus, 3-dimensional (3D) visualization technology for laparoscopy has been proposed, since the early 1990s, as a way to facilitate laparoscopic performance. However, early 3D laparoscopic technology was limited in terms of image quality, so that its use had not been implemented. More recently, industry has developed novel 3D systems where the imaging is similar to stereoscopic vision, in which the depth perception is achieved by different unique images received by each eye. Thus, more recent studies have suggested a possible advantage provided by these new 3D systems during laparoscopic performance. However, comparative assessments of new generation 3D vs 2D laparoscopy remain limited, especially in the hepatobiliary and pancreatic field.