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Development of a Robotic Laser Photocoagulation Probe
Laser photocoagulation is a tool used for treating certain retinal disorders in ophthalmology, and is usually performed using a handheld laser tool. Such procedures require a level of dexterity and precision, and as such we propose developing an automatically positioned tool.
Keywords: medical robotics, biomedical engineering, magnetics, kinematics, laser, ophthalmology
In vitreoretinal surgery, lasers are used as tools to cause tissue coagulation, by selectively "burning" tissue using a handheld probe. Endolasers can be used to treat a number of disorders including:
- Retinal detachments
- Diabetic retinopathy
- Retinal tears
- Choroidal neovascuralization
Laser photocoagulation is usually performed with a small curved laser probe, applying a pattern of small ablation spots over the region of interest. It is a difficult procedure, and requires a high level of dexterity and experience.
We propose replacing the laser probe with an endolaser probe that can be steered using magnetic fields. This would allow precise automatic positioning of the probe head for a more precise and easier operation.
In vitreoretinal surgery, lasers are used as tools to cause tissue coagulation, by selectively "burning" tissue using a handheld probe. Endolasers can be used to treat a number of disorders including:
Laser photocoagulation is usually performed with a small curved laser probe, applying a pattern of small ablation spots over the region of interest. It is a difficult procedure, and requires a high level of dexterity and experience.
We propose replacing the laser probe with an endolaser probe that can be steered using magnetic fields. This would allow precise automatic positioning of the probe head for a more precise and easier operation.
The project would involve:
- Redesigning an existing magnetic microcatheter to be used as an endolaser probe
- Development of a control algorithm relating a desired laser spot to a probe tip position.
- Evaluation in eye-models and ex-vivo animal eyes.
Applicants should show interest in:
- Biomedical engineering
- Basic mechanical design
- Robotics, or control theory
- Programming
The project would involve:
- Redesigning an existing magnetic microcatheter to be used as an endolaser probe - Development of a control algorithm relating a desired laser spot to a probe tip position. - Evaluation in eye-models and ex-vivo animal eyes.
Applicants should show interest in: - Biomedical engineering - Basic mechanical design - Robotics, or control theory - Programming
Contact Samuel Charreyron (samuelch@ethz.ch) for more information.
Contact Samuel Charreyron (samuelch@ethz.ch) for more information.