Evaluation of laparoscopic forceps jaw contact pressure and distribution using pressure sensitive film.

In this study, the authors used the Pressure Measuring System to measure the contact pressure and distribution at the jaws of laparoscopic grasping forceps. This data was then correlated with measured pressures at the forceps handles to understand the relationship between the surgeon's actuating pressure and that on the organ being manipulated. The purpose of this study is to create a database of tactile information to provide guidelines in defining minimally invasive surgery (MIS).

Balloon-Based Organ Retractor With Increased Safety and Reduced Invasiveness During Video-Assisted Thoracoscopic Surgery.

Objectives: In recent years, video-assisted thoracoscopic surgery (VATS) has increasingly become the preferred technique for thoracic surgery. However, the inherent characteristics of the lungs as large, soft, slippery, and delicate creates difficulties for pulmonary surgery. In this article, we outline the development and assessment of a balloon-based organ retractor for VATS via collaboration between medical and engineering personnel.

Research and development of a laparoscopic surgical device for ligating endless organs based on a flexible structure.

While laparoscopic surgery has become increasingly widely used, many laparoscopic procedures are time-consuming and difficult to accomplish compared to open surgery. One such procedure is the ligation of endless organs. In this paper, the development and prototyping of a laparoscopic instrument that could significantly increase the efficiency of laparoscopic ligation is outlined.

Development of a Tailored Thyroid Gland Phantom for Fine-Needle Aspiration Cytology by Three-Dimensional Printing.

Background: Fine-needle aspiration cytology (FNAC) is a challenging and risky procedure for inexperienced clinicians to perform because of the proximity of the thyroid to the jugular veins, carotid arteries, and trachea. A phantom model for transfixion practice would help train clinicians in FNAC.

Objective: To fabricate a tailored phantom with consideration for authenticity of size, touch, feel, and ultrasonographic (US) characteristics.