Flexible suction-coagulation probe restores dexterity in robot-assisted surgery: bench-to-bedside evaluation.

ABSTRACT:

Objective

Rigid suction-coagulation probes constrain the wrist-like articulation that is central to robotic surgery. We therefore designed a 5-mm single-use flexible suction ball coagulator (flex-SBC) with a modified core design to restore dexterity and assessed its mechanical performance and early clinical feasibility, including the effect of the common robotic gripping strategies on suction flow.

Methods

Preclinical. The new 7 × 7 core embedded in silicone was compared with the conventional 1 × 7 core design. Shaft pliability was quantified by sagging displacement and rebound force testing. Suction flow at - 20, - 30, and - 40 kPa was measured, and the impact of grip location (electrode base vs silicone shaft) and forceps type (fenestrated or Maryland bipolar) was analyzed

SUBMITTER: Ushimaru Y 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC12500743 | biostudies-literature | 2025 Oct

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature