The MIM Lab develops robotic and mechatronics surgical systems for a variety of procedures.

Head of Group

Prof Ferdinando Rodriguez y Baena

B415C Bessemer Building
South Kensington Campus

+44 (0)20 7594 7046

⇒ X: @fmryb

 

What we do

The Mechatronics in Medicine Laboratory develops robotic and mechatronics surgical systems for a variety of procedures including neuro, cardiovascular, orthopaedic surgeries, and colonoscopies. Examples include bio-inspired catheters that can navigate along complex paths within the brain (such as EDEN2020), soft robots to explore endoluminal anatomies (such as the colon), and virtual reality solutions to support surgeons during knee replacement surgeries.

Why is it important

The integration of mechatronics into medicine addresses critical challenges in modern healthcare by enhancing the precision, safety, and efficiency of surgical procedures. Traditional surgeries often involve significant risks and extended recovery times. By developing robotic systems that offer greater accuracy and control, we aim to minimise these risks and reduce invasiveness. Our research contributes to the advancement of minimally invasive techniques, which are essential for improving patient outcomes and optimising healthcare resources. Furthermore, our work supports the training of the next generation of surgeons, equipping them with cutting-edge tools and methodologies that reflect the evolving landscape of medical technology.

How can it benefit patients

Patients stand to gain significantly from the innovations developed at the Mechatronics in Medicine Laboratory. Our robotic systems are designed to perform surgeries with enhanced precision, leading to fewer complications and faster recovery times. Minimally invasive procedures facilitated by our technologies result in less postoperative pain and reduced scarring, improving the overall patient experience. Additionally, the increased accuracy of our systems can lead to better surgical outcomes, such as more complete tumour removals or more precise joint replacements, thereby improving long-term health prospects. By pushing the boundaries of medical robotics, we strive to make advanced surgical care more accessible and effective for patients worldwide.

Meet the team

Citation

BibTex format

@inbook{Brett:2018:10.1007/978-3-319-76947-9_18,
author = {Brett, PN and Du, X and Assadi, MZ and Rodriguez, y Baena F and Liu, F and Hinchliffe, R and Thompson, M},
booktitle = {Mechatronics and Machine Vision in Practice 3},
doi = {10.1007/978-3-319-76947-9_18},
pages = {247--252},
title = {Design and experimental demonstration of a mechatronic solution for endovascular catheters},
url = {http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-76947-9_18},
year = {2018}
}

RIS format (EndNote, RefMan)

TY  - CHAP
AB - This paper describes a mechatronics approach that provides vascular surgeons with the perception of movement and tissue interaction in the vicinity of the tip of a catheter in endovascular procedures. The current system described is experimental and used in phantom units. It integrates 3D visualization generated from scan with real-time tactile sensing in the vicinity of the tip of the catheter to update on the nature of tissue interaction, the curvature and relative orientation of the catheter sleeve and guide wire. This approach offers superior perception by the clinician, in contrast with current application of catheters used in this application. By being well informed of conditions at the working environment of the catheter tip the clinician will be able to administer therapies with greater precision in the surgical task and within a reduced operating time. The approach will reduce risk for patients and significantly reduce risks for the clinician, who is currently exposed to high doses of ionizing radiation during the process of catheter guidance.
AU - Brett,PN
AU - Du,X
AU - Assadi,MZ
AU - Rodriguez,y Baena F
AU - Liu,F
AU - Hinchliffe,R
AU - Thompson,M
DO - 10.1007/978-3-319-76947-9_18
EP - 252
PY - 2018///
SP - 247
TI - Design and experimental demonstration of a mechatronic solution for endovascular catheters
T1 - Mechatronics and Machine Vision in Practice 3
UR - http://dx.doi.org/10.1007/978-3-319-76947-9_18
ER -

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The Hamlyn Centre
Bessemer Building
South Kensington Campus
Imperial College
London, SW7 2AZ
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