Development of a Load-Cell Based Palpation Sensor Suitable for Ophthalmic Anesthesia Training

Area of Science:

• Ophthalmology
• Medical Simulation
• Biomedical Engineering

Background:

• Palpation is crucial for ophthalmic anaesthetists to safely guide needles for regional blocks.
• Current training lacks adequate simulation for palpation, risking soft tissue damage from excessive force.
• There is a need for better understanding and control of palpation forces in ophthalmic procedures.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop a novel palpation sensor for ophthalmic anaesthesia training systems.
• To integrate this sensor with a virtual instrument environment for realistic simulation.
• To provide anaesthetists with knowledge of palpation forces and a variable warning threshold.

Main Methods:

• A load cell-based palpation sensor was designed and developed.
• The sensor was integrated into a virtual instrument environment.
• The system was configured to mimic skin reactions and provide force warnings.

Main Results:

• The proposed sensor system effectively measures palpation force.
• The virtual environment successfully simulates skin reactions to palpation.
• Variable warning thresholds can be set to enhance safety during simulated procedures.

Conclusions:

• The developed palpation sensor offers a viable solution for improving ophthalmic anaesthesia training.
• This technology can enhance procedural safety by providing crucial force feedback.
• It addresses the current limitations in training for palpation in ophthalmic regional anaesthesia.