Force-Sensing Silicone Retractor for Attachment to Surgical Suction Pipes

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Surgical Instrumentation
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Current neurosurgical retractors often require frequent tool changes, impacting efficiency.
• Accurate intraoperative force sensing is crucial for safe tissue retraction.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and validate a novel, integrated force-sensing silicone retractor for neurosurgery.
• To enhance surgical safety and efficiency by combining suction, retraction, and real-time force feedback.

Main Methods:

• Development of a silicone retractor with an integrated force visualization mechanism.
• Attachment to a surgical suction pipe for simultaneous function.
• Validation using finite element analysis and experimental testing.
• Force measurement capability with a fiberscope or camera (0.05 N resolution).

Main Results:

• The retractor successfully integrates suction, retraction, and force sensing capabilities.
• A visual force display mechanism allows surgeons to estimate retraction force.
• Experimental validation confirmed the system's accuracy and functionality.
• The device offers disposable, cost-effective, and sterilizable advantages.

Conclusions:

• The novel force-sensing retractor offers a significant advancement in neurosurgical instrumentation.
• It enhances procedural safety and efficiency through integrated functions and intuitive force feedback.
• The disposable and inexpensive nature makes it a practical solution for clinical use.