Computer-Assisted Surgery Using Telemanipulators

This device is used during vitreoretinal surgery when the surgeon needs to visualize the pathology on a micron scale and manually correct the pathology using direct contact and freehand techniques. The procedure occurs within a tiny space surrounded by vital tissues. This procedure requires dissection and separation of fibrous scar tissue from the retinal surface (membrane peeling). However, the human hand cannot do this on its own due to the size of the incision, the tremor of both the surgeon's hands, and the possible tremors of the patient due to the respiratory system. These problems are addressed using a robotic assistance system for retinal procedures such as vein cannulation and retinal sheathotomy.