A multiport MR-compatible neuroendoscope: spanning the gap between rigid and flexible scopes

Area of Science:

• Neurosurgery
• Medical Device Engineering
• Minimally Invasive Surgery

Background:

• Rigid endoscopes offer limited visualization and cause tissue compression.
• Flexible endoscopes provide steerability but have smaller working channels.
• A need exists for an instrument combining the benefits of both rigid and flexible endoscopes.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose and evaluate a prototype multiport neuroendoscope.
• To assess the device's performance in simulated surgical scenarios.
• To determine the device's compatibility with Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI).

Main Methods:

• A prototype multiport neuroendoscope with two optical ports (tip and lateral) was designed and fabricated.
• Testing included porcine brains for visualization in blood-filled fields and MRI compatibility (3-T scanner).
• Human cadaver testing demonstrated colloid cyst resection and septostomy, evaluating endoscope rotation.

Main Results:

• The multiport endoscope successfully visualized tissue in simulated blood-filled conditions and operated within a 3-T MRI scanner.
• Cadaver testing showed effective use of both ports for combined procedures with minimal endoscope rotation (<5°).
• Image quality was evaluated against clinical rigid and flexible neuroendoscopes.

Conclusions:

• The multiport neuroendoscope design allows customizable port placement for various neurosurgical applications.
• The device offers enhanced steerability and reduced brain distortion compared to rigid endoscopes.
• MRI compatibility expands its utility for complex hydrocephalus and tumor treatments.