Publications by authors named "Maarten J Beelen"

Background: The aim was to explore the feasibility and safety of performing common surgical steps in epiretinal membrane (ERM) peeling using the Preceyes Surgical System (PSS).

Methods: In a tertiary centre, 15 pseudophakic patients with an idiopathic ERM were randomised to robot-assistance or manual surgery in a 2:1 ratio. In the robot-assisted group, the following steps were performed using PSS: (1) staining the internal limiting membrane (ILM), (2) removal of the dye, (3) creating an ILM flap, (4) completing the peeling, (5) holding a light pipe and (6) fluid-air exchange.

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Purpose: To report the results of a first-in-human study using a robotic device to assist subretinal drug delivery in patients undergoing vitreoretinal surgery for macular hemorrhage.

Design: Double-armed, randomized controlled surgical trial (ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT03052881).

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Purpose: Compare accuracy and precision in XYZ of stationary and dynamic tasks performed by surgeons with and without the use of a tele-operated robotic micromanipulator in a simulated vitreoretinal environment. The tasks were performed using a surgical microscope or while observing a video monitor.

Method: Two experienced and two novice surgeons performed tracking and static tasks at a fixed depth with hand-held instruments on a Preceyes Surgical System R0.

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Purpose: Retinal vein occlusions (RVO) are a major cause of vision loss in people aged 50 years and older. Current therapeutic options limit the consequences of RVO but do not eliminate the cause. Cannulation of the involved vessel and removal of the clot may provide a more permanent solution with a less demanding follow-up.

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Purpose: To develop a methodology for cannulating porcine retinal venules using a robotic assistive arm after inducing a retinal vein occlusion using the photosensitizer rose bengal.

Methodology: Retinal vein occlusions proximal to the first vascular branch point were induced following intravenous injection of rose bengal by exposure to 532nm laser light delivered by slit-lamp or endolaser probe. Retinal veins were cannulated by positioning a glass catheter tip using a robotically controlled micromanipulator above venules with an outer diameter of 80μm or more and performing a preset piercing maneuver, controlled robotically.

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