Percutaneous Tumor Biopsy and Ablation under MRI using Soft Robots

Interventional magnetic resonance imaging (iMRI) has made significant advances in the diagnosis and treatment of tumors in the liver and kidney over the past two decades. However, due to the confined working space in MRI machines, it is still extremely difficult for clinical staff to position and control the needle-shaped probes used for treatment. MRI-compatible robotic systems have thus become the target of intensive research by both academic and industrial research teams worldwide. The efforts are aimed at overcoming the challenges associated with the limited working space in the boreholes of MRI machines. The goal is to facilitate the transition from computed tomography (CT) to MRI-guided procedures while taking advantage of the benefits of MRI, including exceptional soft tissue contrast, non-ionizing radiation and the versatility of multi-angle imaging.

At match, we are working together with the team at the Institute of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology at Hannover Medical School (MHH) on a soft robot for use in MRI. Soft robots are particularly suitable for use in MRI, as the materials used here, such as silicone, textiles and plastics, do not cause any interference with MRI imaging. In addition, actuation using compressed air is also MRI-compatible and does not generate image artifacts. The biggest challenges in the project are the high demands placed on medical systems in terms of precision and safety.