In vivo robots for laparoscopic surgery.

Laparoscopic techniques have allowed surgeons to perform operations through small incisions. However, the benefits of laparoscopy are still limited to less complex procedures because of losses in imaging and dexterity compared to conventional surgery. This project is developing miniature robots to be placed within the abdominal cavity to assist the surgeon. These remotely controlled in vivo robots provide the surgeon with an enhanced field of view from arbitrary angles as well as provide dexterous manipulators not constrained by small incisions in the abdominal wall.