Manabu Nagasaka

Development of a patient-specific simulator for laparoscopic renal surgery.

Objectives:  To describe the development of a patient‐specific simulator for laparoscopic renal surgery.

Measurement of the Physical Properties during Laparoscopic Surgery Performed on Pigs by Using Forceps with Pressure Sensors

Objectives. Here we developed a unique training system, a patient specific virtual reality simulator, for laparoscopic renal surgery. To develop the simulator, it was important to first identify the physical properties of the organ. Methods. We recorded the force measured during laparoscopic surgery performed on pigs by using forceps with pressure sensors. Several sensors, including strain gauges, accelerometers, and a potentiometer, are attached to the forceps. Results. Throughout the experiment, we measured the reaction force in response to the forceps movement in real time. Conclusions. The experiment showed the possibility of digitizing these physical properties in humans as well.

Virtual Human Body using Haptic Devices for Endoscopic Surgery Training Simulator

We have been developing a virtual human body using haptic devices for the endoscopic surgery training simulator. This system is composed of two 3-DOF haptic devices and a control board with USB2.0 interface. This system is connected to a host computer through Ethernet. Two operational tools are connected to haptic devices each through holes on the virtual body, and the operator is able to feel the sense of touch with virtual organs.