International Journal of Medical Robotics and Computer Assisted Surgery 

About: International Journal of Medical Robotics and Computer Assisted Surgery is an academic journal published by Wiley-Blackwell. The journal publishes majorly in the area(s): Robotic surgery & Medicine. It has an ISSN identifier of 1478-5951. Over the lifetime, 1423 publications have been published receiving 28873 citations. The journal is also known as: MRCAS & International journal of medical robotics +computer assisted surgery.

Evolution of autonomous and semi-autonomous robotic surgical systems: a review of the literature

Abstract: Background Autonomous control of surgical robotic platforms may offer enhancements such as higher precision, intelligent manoeuvres, tissue-damage avoidance, etc. Autonomous robotic systems in surgery are largely at the experimental level. However, they have also reached clinical application. Methods A literature review pertaining to commercial medical systems which incorporate autonomous and semi-autonomous features, as well as experimental work involving automation of various surgical procedures, is presented. Results are drawn from major databases, excluding papers not experimentally implemented on real robots. Results Our search yielded several experimental and clinical applications, describing progress in autonomous surgical manoeuvres, ultrasound guidance, optical coherence tomography guidance, cochlear implantation, motion compensation, orthopaedic, neurological and radiosurgery robots. Conclusion Autonomous and semi-autonomous systems are beginning to emerge in various interventions, automating important steps of the operation. These systems are expected to become standard modality and revolutionize the face of surgery. Copyright © 2011 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Human tactile perception as a standard for artificial tactile sensing--a review.

Abstract: In this paper, we examine the most important features of human skin tactile properties with special emphasis on the characteristics which are vital in the design of artificial systems. Contrary to the visual and auditory senses, the touch signal is not a well-defined quantity. As a result, the researchers of this field are still dealing with the basics of collecting the most relevant data. Following this, mimicking the sense of touch by producing artificial tactile skin is a challenging process. Although the sense of touch is widely distributed all over the human body, the tactile perception in the human hand is of great importance in terms of surgical and medical robotics applications. In this study, the role of various mechanoreceptors in the human hand, such as, RA, SA I, SA II, and PC units are discussed in relation to the stimuli like force, position, softness, and surface texture. Taking human hand as a suitable tactile model, the necessary engineering features of an artificial tactile sensor, such as, spatial and temporal resolutions, force sensitivity, and linearity, are being reviewed. In this work, we also report on the current and possible future applications of tactile sensors in various surgical procedures.

OpenIGTLink: an open network protocol for image-guided therapy environment

Abstract: Background With increasing research on system integration for imageguided therapy (IGT), there has been a strong demand for standardized communication among devices and software to share data such as target positions, images and device status.

The role of medical simulation: an overview.

Abstract: Robotic surgery and medical simulation have much in common: both use a mechanized interface that provides visual “patient” reactions in response to the actions of the health care professional (although simulation also includes touch feedback); both use monitors to visualize the progression of the procedure; and both use computer software applications through which the health care professional interacts. Both technologies are experiencing rapid adoption and are viewed as modalities that allow physicians to perform increasingly complex minimally invasive procedures while enhancing patient safety. A review of the literature and industry developments concludes that medical simulators can be useful tools in determining a physician's understanding and use of best practices, management of patient complications, appropriate use of instruments and tools, and overall competence in performing procedures. Future use of these systems depends on their impact on patient safety, procedure completion time and cost efficiency. The sooner simulation training can be used to support developing technologies and procedures, the earlier, and typically the better, the results. Continued studies are needed to identify and ensure the ongoing applicability of these systems for both training and certification. Copyright © 2006 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.

Three-dimensional surface acquisition systems for the study of facial morphology and their application to maxillofacial surgery.

Abstract: Background There has been a growing interest in three-dimensional (3D) surface imaging devices over the last few years. Methods This comprehensive review discusses the various emerging technologies in this field of 3D imaging and applies the use of technology to oral and maxillofacial imaging. Results The paper shows that there is increased awareness and application of technology to the field. Conclusion 3D surface acquisition technology is improving at a rapid pace and has a place in oral and maxillofacial surgery. Copyright © 2007 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.