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Force-Based Puncture Detection and Active Position Holding for Assisted Retinal Vein Cannulation
Berk Gonenc1, Nhat Tran1, Cameron N Riviere2
1CISST ERC at Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, MD 21218 USA.
Summary
This study introduces an assistive system for retinal vein cannulation, improving needle stability during drug delivery for retinal vein occlusion. The system enhances procedural feasibility by sensing vein puncture and maintaining cannulation.
Area of Science:
- Ophthalmology
- Medical Devices
- Surgical Robotics
Background:
- Retinal vein occlusion (RVO) treatment requires direct drug delivery via retinal vein cannulation.
- Current cannulation techniques face challenges in precise vein puncture identification and stable device maintenance.
- These limitations hinder the clinical feasibility of direct intraocular drug delivery for RVO.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and evaluate an assistive system for retinal vein cannulation.
- To address challenges in identifying venous puncture and maintaining cannulation stability.
- To improve the feasibility of direct therapeutic agent delivery for retinal vein occlusion.
Main Methods:
- Development of an integrated system combining a handheld micromanipulator (Micron) and a force-sensing microneedle.
- Utilizing measured forces and needle tip position to detect the moment of vein puncture.
- Implementing active stabilization to maintain the cannulation device securely within the vein.
Main Results:
- Preliminary testing in a dry phantom demonstrated significant improvements in stable needle maintenance time within the vein.
- The system successfully sensed the instant of venous puncture based on force feedback.
- Enhanced stability was particularly noted in smaller veins, attributed to reduced cannula movement post-cannulation.
Conclusions:
- The developed assistive system shows promise in overcoming key challenges in retinal vein cannulation.
- Improved needle stability and puncture detection enhance the feasibility of direct drug delivery for RVO.
- This technology could advance therapeutic strategies for retinal vascular diseases.

