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12:51
Simultaneous Multicolor Imaging of Biological Structures with Fluorescence Photoactivation Localization Microscopy
Published on: December 9, 2013
Laser-induced fluorescence and reflected white light imaging for robot-assisted MIS
David P Noonan1, Daniel S Elson, George P Mylonas
1Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Department of Biosurgery and Surgical Technology, Imperial College, London SW7 2AZ, UK. dnoonan@imperial.ac.uk
IEEE Transactions on Bio-Medical Engineering
|March 11, 2009
Summary
This study introduces a robotic device for minimally invasive surgery (MIS) that uses advanced imaging to map large tissue areas. This innovation enhances in vivo tissue characterization and surgical navigation.
Area of Science:
- Robotics
- Medical Imaging
- Minimally Invasive Surgery
Background:
- Minimally invasive surgery (MIS) requires advanced tools for in vivo tissue imaging and characterization.
- Current MIS devices face limitations in field of view and dexterity.
- Accurate tissue visualization is crucial for surgical navigation and diagnosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and evaluate an articulated robotic-controlled device for large-area in vivo tissue imaging in MIS.
- To integrate miniaturized reflected white light and fluorescence intensity imaging capabilities.
- To overcome the constraints of small footprints and limited articulation in MIS instruments.
Main Methods:
- A robotic device with a 3-DOF articulated distal tip and 1-DOF rotational freedom was designed.
- A tunable coherent supercontinuum laser source provided sequential white light and fluorescence illumination via a 200 µm multimode fiber.
- A 10,000-pixel flexible fiber image guide (590 µm) transmitted reflected images for acquisition.
- Controlled joint actuation enabled overlapping trajectories for expanded field of view imaging.
Main Results:
- A first-generation prototype of the articulated robotic device was successfully fabricated.
- Initial phantom and ex vivo tissue characterization demonstrated the device's imaging capabilities.
- The device achieved a larger field of view compared to traditional dual-mode laparoscopes through trajectory planning.
Conclusions:
- The developed robotic device shows significant potential as a novel platform for in vivo tissue characterization.
- It offers enhanced navigation capabilities within the confined spaces of MIS.
- Further development could lead to improved surgical outcomes through better visualization and real-time tissue analysis.
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