Background: 3D reconstruction algorithms are of fundamental importance for augmented reality applications in computer‐assisted surgery. However, few datasets of endoscopic stereo images with associated 3D surface references are currently openly available, preventing the proper validation of such algorithms. This work presents a new and rich dataset of endoscopic stereo images (EndoAbS dataset).
Methods: The dataset includes (i) endoscopic stereo images of phantom abdominal organs, (ii) a 3D organ surface reference (RF) generated with a laser scanner and (iii) camera calibration parameters. A detailed description of the generation of the phantom and the camera–laser calibration method is also provided.
Results: An estimation of the overall error in creation of the dataset is reported (camera–laser calibration error 0.43 mm) and the performance of a 3D reconstruction algorithm is evaluated using EndoAbS, resulting in an accuracy error in accordance with state‐of‐the‐art results (<2 mm).
Conclusions: The EndoAbS dataset contributes to an increase the number and variety of openly available datasets of surgical stereo images, including a highly accurate RF and different surgical conditions.