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A Spine Robotic-Assisted Navigation System for Pedicle Screw Placement
Published on: May 11, 2020
Precision placement of instruments for minimally invasive procedures using a "needle driver" robot.
K Cleary1, V Watson, D Lindisch
1Division of Computer Aided Interventions and Medical Robotics (CAIMR), Imaging Science and Information Systems (ISIS) Center, Department of Radiology, Georgetown University Medical Center, Washington, DC, USA. cleary@georgetown.edu
Summary
This study shows a robotic needle driver can precisely place needles for medical procedures, matching manual methods in spinal nerve blocks and showing promise for lung biopsies. This technology aims to enhance minimally invasive treatments.
Area of Science:
- Medical robotics
- Minimally invasive surgery
Background:
- Medical procedures increasingly favor less invasive techniques.
- Precise needle placement is critical for many of these procedures.
- Robotic assistance is being explored to improve needle placement accuracy.
Purpose of the Study:
- To summarize research on a robotic needle driver system.
- To evaluate the system's performance in clinical applications.
- To present the commercialization and future installation plans for the robot.
Main Methods:
- A robotic needle driver was used under joystick control for spinal nerve blockade in 10 patients.
- Fluoroscopic imaging guided needle placement.
- A phantom study was conducted for lung biopsy under CT fluoroscopy.
Main Results:
- The robotic system achieved results equivalent to manual procedures for spinal nerve blockade.
- The system demonstrated feasibility for lung biopsy applications.
- A start-up company, ImageGuide, has been formed to commercialize the robot.
Conclusions:
- Robotic needle drivers offer a viable alternative for precise needle placement in minimally invasive procedures.
- The technology shows potential for improving outcomes in spinal and lung interventions.
- Commercialization efforts are underway with planned installations in clinical settings.
