Development of miniaturized light endoscope-holder robot for laparoscopic surgery

TL;DR

This paper presents a small, low-cost robotic endoscope holder for laparoscopic surgery that is voice-controlled, easy to install, and capable of performing procedures independently, potentially reducing the need for an assistant.

Contribution

The development of a compact, voice-controlled, and easily installable robotic endoscope holder that operates independently during laparoscopic surgeries.

Findings

Successfully tested on cadavers and pigs with 23 procedures.

Achieved 21 procedures performed without an assistant.

Installation takes only 5 minutes, demonstrating ease of use.

Abstract

PURPOSE: We have conducted experiments with an innovatively designed robot endoscope holder for laparoscopic surgery that is small and low cost. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A compact light endoscope robot (LER) that is placed on the patient's skin and can be used with the patient in the lateral or dorsal supine position was tested on cadavers and laboratory pigs in order to allow successive modifications. The current control system is based on voice recognition. The range of vision is 360 degrees with an angle of 160 degrees . Twenty-three procedures were performed. RESULTS: The tests made it possible to advance the prototype on a variety of aspects, including reliability, steadiness, ergonomics, and dimensions. The ease of installation of the robot, which takes only 5 minutes, and the easy handling made it possible for 21 of the 23 procedures to be performed without an assistant. CONCLUSION: The LER is a camera holder guided by the surgeon's voice that can eliminate the need for an assistant during laparoscopic surgery. The ease of installation and manufacture should make it an effective and inexpensive system for use on patients in the lateral and dorsal supine positions. Randomized clinical trials will soon validate a new version of this robot prior to marketing.