Tracking small bones for robotic surgery

Overview

Robotic knee surgery can perform femoral and tibial resection. Currently it is not possible to use robotic technology for patella preparation; to do so will require miniaturisation of tracking, effective clamping of the patella and controlled use of a saw. This project will aim to develop the technology for any small bone resection with a robot, taking the patella as a test case.

Research activities

1. Understanding robotic surgery and the challenges involved.
2. Exploring techniques for 3D pose tracking and robotic tool operation in the surgical context.
3. Demonstrating new techniques on surgical platforms with robots.
4. Integrating new technologies with state-of-the-art surgical robotics systems.

Outcomes

1. A framework for patellar resection using a robot.
2. Prototype algorithms and tools for using the said system.

Skills and experience

• The applicant is expected to have a strong background in either engineering (mechanical, electrical, medical, design, control, mechatronics), robotics, physics, or bioengineering.
• A master’s degree or a bachelor’s degree with excellent academic record is desirable.
• The candidate must be familiar with computer-aided design and fabrication.
• The student must be interested in developing hardware and setting up experimental platforms.
• The project involves interacting with medical practitioners, engineers, and support personnel. Therefore, the ability to communicate with people of diverse backgrounds is desirable.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills in English are expected.
• Proficiency in a programming language is a bonus.

Scholarships

You may be eligible to apply for a research scholarship.

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Keywords

• robot
• surgery
• medical
• design
• hardware
• orthopedics

Contact

Contact the supervisor for more information.