Soft robotic deployable origami actuators for neurosurgical brain retraction
Embargo Date
2023-09-24
OA Version
Citation
Abstract
Metallic tools such as graspers, forceps, spatulas, and clamps used in proximity to delicate brain tissue risk damage to important neurological structures and is a primary concern for neurosurgeons. Novel soft robotic technologies have the opportunity to shift the design paradigm for these tools towards safer and more compliant, minimally invasive methods. Here, we present a pneumatically actuated, origami-inspired brain retractor aimed at atraumatic surgical workspace generation inside the cranial cavity. We explore methods in additive, multi-material manufacturing along with pneumatic soft robotic actuation to fabricate the device and validate its performance on an in-vitro model.