We are living in an era of ‘everything SMART’ – from a smartwatch to smartphones. Innovation, science, and technology are making breakthrough inventions that are making our lives comfortable and convenient. One such invention is a SMART SCALPEL – devised by a Mexican engineer.
Brain surgery is a complicated process. It’s never easy. There’s always risks involved in this type of surgery. However, there is a way to make the process safer than before. And it is possible by a SMART SCALPEL!
David Oliva Uribe – a Mexican engineer – has invented a smart scalpel. The smart scalpel is devised and built with sensors. The sensors are designed to identify and detect tumors in just half a second. Thus, there is a minimization of human error and reduction of risks involved in the surgical procedure of brain damage.
Imaging techniques, such as ultrasound and MRI are also capable of locating tumors in the most accurate manner before surgeries. However, during the phase of cranial opening and the entire procedure – several factors can cause positional loss. Thus, resection rests on a surgeon’s experience, sense of touch and sight.
The smart scalpel – though not available yet to the surgeons – was first tested in the brain of a pig, with artificial tumors. The device has to undergo many more testing phases. It might take many years for the Smart Scalpel to become practical and fully functional. However, after many clinical trials, the smart scalpel can find its way in operation tables. And this what Uribe hopes for. He adds that the sensor technology is adaptable for the tumor detection in other parts of our body too, for example, intestines, stomach, etc. The smart scalpel also has the potential of empowering teleoperation that is used in surgeries, assisted by robots!
For more info, click here. ( futurism.com )
