Design and Technical Feasibility Testing of a Medical Robot for Flexible Catheter Navigation Inside the Lung Airways

Abstract

ABSTRACTThe integration of medical robots is revolutionizing clinical medicine, especially in procedures requiring precision in instrument manipulation and navigation within the body using medical imaging techniques like fluoroscopy, CT, and MRI. This is particularly challenging in peripheral lung lesion examinations, where guiding long, flexible instruments through the lung airways to the target exposes medical professionals and patients to harmful X-ray radiation. Several robotic approaches exist but there are still shortcomings in terms of their large footprint in the operating room and complex and costly mechanical structure. The goal of our research was to develop and test the early feasibility of RoboCath, an innovative robotic platform designed for the adaptable navigation of long, flexible catheter-like medical instruments through the lung airways. RoboCath seamlessly integrates with existing medical devices, such as bronchoscopes, facilitating access to lower lung regions with precision. Its compact design is ideal for crowded operating rooms, ensures sterilization compatibility, and supports a broad range of procedures, including those requiring intricate instrument manipulation and medical imaging for navigation. This technology significantly reduces the reliance on X-ray, thereby minimizing radiation exposure to both healthcare providers and patients. The RoboCath system represents a significant advancement in the field of medical robotics, offering a novel solution to the challenges of lung lesion biopsy and diagnosis, with potential applications in various open orifice procedures.