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

@article{Frasson:2010,
author = {Frasson, L and Ko, SY and Turner, A and Parittotokkaporn, T and Vincent, JF and Rodriguez, y Baena F},
pages = {775--788},
title = {STING: a soft-tissue intervention and neurosurgical guide to access deep brain lesions through curved trajectories},
url = {http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20608494},
volume = {224},
year = {2010}
}

RIS format (EndNote, RefMan)

TY  - JOUR
AB - Current trends in surgical intervention favour a minimally invasive approach, in which complex procedures are performed through very small incisions. Specifically, in neurosurgery there is a need for minimally invasive keyhole access, which conflicts with the lack of manoeuvrability of conventional rigid instruments. In an attempt to address this shortcoming, the current state of progress is reported on a soft-tissue intervention and neurosurgical guide (STING) to access deep brain lesions through curved trajectories. The underlying mechanism of motion, based on the reciprocal movement of interlocked probe segments, is biologically inspired and was designed around the unique features of the ovipositor of certain parasitic wasps. Work to date has focused on probe development, low- and high-level control, and trajectory planning. These aspects are described, together with results on each aspect of the work, including biomimetic microtexturing of the probe surface. Progress is very encouraging and demonstrates that forward motion into soft tissue through a reciprocating mechanism is indeed viable and can be achieved through a suitable combination of microtexturing and microfabrication techniques.
AU - Frasson,L
AU - Ko,SY
AU - Turner,A
AU - Parittotokkaporn,T
AU - Vincent,JF
AU - Rodriguez,y Baena F
EP - 788
PY - 2010///
SN - 0954-4119
SP - 775
TI - STING: a soft-tissue intervention and neurosurgical guide to access deep brain lesions through curved trajectories
UR - http://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed/20608494
VL - 224
ER -

Contact Us

General enquiries

Facility enquiries


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