Haptic handles for robotic surgery

Abstract

Robotic surgery, i.e. master-slave telemanipulators for surgery, is rapidly developing. One of the key components is the surgeon's console, and, within the console, especially the "handles" (the "joysticks") for manipulation control. Two examples of haptic (force-feedback) handle designs developed and realized at the LSRO lab are briefly presented along with design considerations (ergonomics, usability). Incidence on patient safety and patient benefit and future trends in this field are hinted at, especially the possibilities offered VR in this context.