Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 6, 2026

Preparation and Respirometric Assessment of Mitochondria Isolated from Skeletal Muscle Tissue Obtained by Percutaneous Needle Biopsy
Published on: February 7, 2015
MR-compatible biopsy needle with enhanced tip force sensing
Santhi Elayaperumal1, Jung Hwa Bae2, David Christensen3
1Mechanical Engineering Dept., Stanford University.
Abstract:
We describe an instrumented biopsy needle that provides physicians the capability to sense interaction forces directly at the tip of the needle's inner stylet. The sensors consist of optical fiber Bragg gratings (FBGs), and are unaffected by electromagnetic fields; hence the needle is suitable for MR-guided procedures. In comparison to previous instrumented needles that measure bending strains, the new design has additional sensors and a series of micro-machined holes at the tip. The holes increase strain sensitivity, especially to axial forces, without significantly reducing the stiffness or strength. A comparison of the dynamic forces measured with the new needle and those obtained using a force/torque sensor at the needle base shows that the enhanced tip sensitivity is particularly noticeable when there is significant friction along the needle sleeve.
Related Concept Videos
The Sense of Self: Reflected Self-Appraisal and Social Comparison
Self-Evaluation: Self-Enhancement and Self-Verification
Introduction to Special Senses
Intermolecular Forces
Electromotive Force
Tactile and Chemical Senses

