UAE University develops robotic aide that helps surgeons

Top Stories

UAE University develops robotic aide that helps surgeons

Al Ain - Capable of operating both manually and autonomously, it has also been designed in a way to work in a confined area

  • Follow us on
  • google-news
  • whatsapp
  • telegram

Published: Sat 4 Mar 2017, 6:16 PM

Last updated: Sat 4 Mar 2017, 8:22 PM

A robotic aide developed at the United Arab Emirates University (UAEU) is all set to help surgeons navigate complex and delicate procedures via remote control.
The technology created within the UAEU's College of Engineering, which has secured a patent, employs a novel compactor robotic manipulator which is specially configured with a remote 'centre-of-motion' function that effectively gives the surgeon an extra hand.
The Manipulator for Surgical Tools device can accurately manipulate and reorient special-purpose surgical tools for minimally-invasive procedures, including those used to treat some forms of cancer, with a freedom range of two degrees, and lock them in place.
Capable of operating both manually and autonomously, it has also been designed in a way to work in a confined area where even the slightest twitch or error is unthinkable for surgeons.
"The tools which this device can manipulate are used in surgeries such as biopsies, where it helps the surgeon reorient the needle before inserting it," said Dr Basem Yousef, associate professor of mechanical engineering, College of Engineering, UAEU.
"It can also be used for a type of radiotherapy called brachytherapy - a procedure used to treat lung, prostate and breast cancer - where radioactive seeds are planted to break up cancer cells. The device helps to implant these seeds. That is the overall aim - to help the surgeon by making the process more efficient and more accurate."
The device comprises a sophisticated joint-link structure and configuration that allow the surgeon to comfortably manoeuvre the tool at a "pivot point", typically where it enters the patient's body, while avoiding the keyhole being widened.
reporters@khaleejtimes.com
 


More news from