[Methods of resolution for haptic assistance during catheterization].

Area of Science:

• Biomedical Engineering
• Medical Devices
• Surgical Navigation

Background:

• Current catheterization relies heavily on live X-ray imaging, demanding extensive surgeon training for precise positioning.
• Existing 3D visualization and remote navigation methods are still under development and do not fully replace surgeon skill.
• Lack of direct tactile feedback during catheterization limits intraoperative control and safety.

Purpose of the Study:

• To present a novel add-on system for existing catheterization procedures.
• To introduce a miniaturized force sensor integrated into guidewire tips.
• To enable surgeons to perceive forces between the guidewire tip and vessel walls via haptic feedback.

Main Methods:

• Development and prototyping of a miniaturized force sensor for guidewire tips.
• Integration of the sensor with an external actuator to provide amplified force feedback.
• System designed to augment, not replace, current catheterization techniques.

Main Results:

• The prototype successfully measures forces at the guidewire tip.
• The external actuator effectively translates measured forces into haptic sensations for the surgeon.
• The system provides a tactile perception comparable to direct palpation of internal vessels.

Conclusions:

• The developed haptic feedback system enhances catheterization by providing intuitive force perception.
• This technology has the potential to improve surgical precision and reduce reliance on extensive training.
• The system offers a valuable tool for surgeons, mimicking in-vivo tactile sensations during minimally invasive procedures.