Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 8, 2026

05:39
Three-Dimensional Printing Guide Template Assisted Percutaneous Vertebroplasty (PVP)
Published on: October 17, 2019
Development of the needle insertion robot for percutaneous vertebroplasty
S Onogi1, K Morimoto, I Sakuma
1Graduate School of Frontier Sciences, The University of Tokyo, Japan.
Summary
A novel robotic system for Percutaneous Vertebroplasty (PVP) enhances surgical accuracy and safety. This robot minimizes radiation exposure for operators during precise needle insertion for vertebral fractures.
Area of Science:
- Medical Robotics
- Neurosurgery
- Orthopedic Surgery
Background:
- Percutaneous Vertebroplasty (PVP) treats vertebral osteoporotic compression fractures but presents challenges.
- Accurate needle placement in narrow vertebral anatomy and operator radiation exposure are significant concerns.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and evaluate a robotic system for precise and safe needle insertion during PVP.
- To reduce surgeon radiation exposure during this critical orthopedic procedure.
Main Methods:
- A compact needle insertion robot was designed for PVP, integrating with a surgical navigation system.
- Pre-operative 3D CT images planned needle trajectories, and the robot controlled insertion.
- The robot's X-ray lucent needle holder allowed fluoroscopic monitoring, with a safety mechanism to prevent excessive force.
Main Results:
- The robot system demonstrated satisfactory basic performance and accuracy for PVP.
- In vitro evaluations showed average position and orientation errors below 1.0 mm and 1.0 degree, respectively.
- The safety mechanism effectively protected against excessive needle force.
Conclusions:
- The developed needle insertion robot shows significant promise for improving PVP procedures.
- The system enhances accuracy, reduces operator radiation exposure, and incorporates safety features.

