Transient pacemaker dissolves in body
Researchers have developed the first-ever transient pacemaker — a wireless, battery-free, fully implantable pacing device that disappears after it’s no longer needed.
surgery
Emerging technologies are transforming the way surgical procedures are done. We will give an overview on new applications of surgical robotics, immersive realities such as augmented and virtual reality, 3D printing, and digitalization in the OR.
Shape-changing implants to treat severe pain
An ultra-thin, inflatable device that uses a combination of soft robotic fabrication techniques and microfluidics can be used to treat the most severe forms of pain without the need for invasive surgery.
A hydrogel for removal of kidney stones
Purenum GmbH has succeeded in certifying a biocompatible hydrogel for the removal of kidney stone residues for endoscopic therapy.
Hydrogel electrodes flow to fit the body
Scientists have created flexible, metal-free electrode arrays that conform to the body - avoiding damage to organs.
Smart elastomers make robots more touchy-feely
A new generation of robotic tools are beginning to be realized thanks to a combination of strong 'muscles' and sensitive 'nerves' created from smart polymeric materials.
3D printed liver to help surgeons prepare for operations
New research could help surgeons perform liver resections with greater accuracy and deliver improved patient outcomes.
Printable biosensors could make surgery safer
Researchers have developed fully printable biosensor made of soft bio-inks interfaces with a pig heart.
Stereotactic systems from the 3D printer
Researchers have developed a way of manufacturing stereotactic systems from plastic using a 3D printer – a cost-effective method that opens up new design potential.
Hydrogel protects heart from post-op adhesions
Researchers have designed a device to safely and accurately spray the hydrogel inside the area where open heart surgery is being performed.
Magnetic fields controll miniature robots
Scientistshave developed millimeter-sized robots that can be controlled using magnetic fields to perform highly maneuverable and dexterous manipulations.
Augmented reality helps to see, feel and understand
X-ray vision, context-sensitive guidance, coordinator, training assistant and more: augmented reality (AR) has hit the OR.
3D printing helps surgeons correct birth defect
Lifelike fetal 3D models show anatomical details that help surgeons prepare and predict challenges for delicate and complicated surgery.
Researchers use bioprinting to create nose cartilage
Researchers have used 3D bioprinting technology to create custom-shaped cartilage. They aim to make it easier for surgeons to safely restore the features of skin cancer patients living with nasal cartilage defects after surgery.
Using 4D printing to enable spinal fusion
4D printing helps create a biomimetic microchannel scaffold made of collagen and hydroxyapatite.
3D biocomposites can repair large bone defects
Loosening hip implants can cause major damage to the bone and a simple replacement won’t suffice to carry the load during movements. Researchers have turned to bioprinting to solve this problem.
Wearable improves care after kidney transplantation
Scientists have found that a simple device can reduce swelling after kidney transplantation. Clinical trial shows shortened hospital stay for patients and reduced surgical site infections by almost 60 percent.
Bioprinting: Skin and bones repaired during surgery
Researchers have repaired traumatic injuries to the skin and bones in a rat model using bioprinting during surgery.
Medtronic taps augmented reality 'flight simulators' for surgery
Medtronic partners with Surgical Theater to provide the first augmented reality platform for use in real-rime during complex cranial procedures.
Robot guides surgical catheter precisely
A researcher has designed a robotic surgical platform that steers surgical catheters through electromagnetic fields.
Hydrogel can repair tears in human tissue
Scientists have developed an injectable gel that can attach to various kinds of soft internal tissues and repair tears resulting from an accident or trauma.
Robotics: man and machine in the OR
There is an ongoing debate as to whether the extensive usage of robots in the short-term is realistic and sensible. Moreover, the benefits such systems offer for patient care are disputed.
Fortnite and Zelda can up your surgical game
Video games offer students obvious respite from the stresses of studies and, now, a study has found they could benefit surgical skills training.
Enhanced safety and precision with semi-automatic milling systems
Professor Dr Henning Windhagen is a great fan of semi-automatic systems in the OR that help with implants but leave the surgeon in the driver’s seat.
A promising future for soft bioelectronic interfaces
Researchers have demonstrated MRI compatibility in their soft electrode arrays – a crucial step in translation to the clinic.
Antibiotics embedded in 3D printed implants used to regenerate damaged bone
Researchers have fabricated 3D scaffold implants containing antibiotics at high temperatures. These scaffolds support bone regeneration and manage the bone infections.
Augmented reality provides insights during liver surgery
Researchers are developing 3D technologies for surgeons. The aids for surgery planning are particularly advanced.
Lab-created heart valves can grow with the recipient
Researchers have shown that lab-created heart valves implanted in young lambs for a year were capable of growth within the recipient.
Adaptive microelectronics reshape independently
Nanoscientists have developed adaptive microelectronics that can move independently according to sensor data and align themselves specifically for activities - possible applications in biomedicine and bioneural interfacing.
Advanced tech enables simulated sinus surgery
The world’s first international online training session utilizing advanced 3D sinus models and a telemedicine system has taken place.
