Magnetic resonance imaging compatible robotic system for fully automated brachytherapy seed placement.

ABSTRACT:

Objectives

To introduce the development of the first magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-compatible robotic system capable of automated brachytherapy seed placement.

Methods

An MRI-compatible robotic system was conceptualized and manufactured. The entire robot was built of nonmagnetic and dielectric materials. The key technology of the system is a unique pneumatic motor that was specifically developed for this application. Various preclinical experiments were performed to test the robot for precision and imager compatibility.

Results

The robot was fully operational within all closed-bore MRI scanners. Compatibility tests in scanners of up to 7 Tesla field intensity showed no interference of the robot with the imager. Precision tests in tissue mockups yielded a mean seed

SUBMITTER: Muntener M 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC3100553 | biostudies-literature | 2006 Dec

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature