New Robotic Device can Help Perform Brain Surgery Via Cheek

Researchers at Vanderbilt University are currently developing a new robotic device that can reach remote regions of the brain through the cheek. Currently doctors have to drill a hole into the skulls of certain epilepsy patients in order to remove a part of the brain region called the hippocampus which generates stray signals. Such a surgery is very delicate in nature and even a slight mistake may lead to major complications.

The new device being developed is less invasive or complicated but does require certain adjustments as it is difficult to reach the hippocampus even from below. The device makes use of a steerable needle, made of nitinol, that can be used to navigate to the required region without damaging the surrounding tissue.

Researchers hope to being testing on cadavers and then move to clinical trials with the final product at least a decade away.



Source-Medindia