MRI Robot - Advantages

Advantages

Though engineering MRI robots can be challenging, MRI robots have many advantages. One large advantage of using MRI as the imaging modality is the patient isn't exposed to radiation as they would be from computed tomography (CT scan) and x-ray imaging. MRI also has better image quality than other imaging modalities and is better able to distinguish between cancerous and health cells then ultrasound imaging.

MRI compatible robots could greatly change IGI. Currently, most IGIs are a multi-step process. Initially the patient must be imaged in order to decide the best location to begin the procedure. After this scan, the patient is moved to make any necessary incisions and prepare for their operation. The patient is then scanned again to ensure proper alignment of the instruments. If the instruments aren't properly aligned, the instrument must be moved, followed by another scan. This process of moving and scanning continues until the correct location and alignment of instruments is obtained. During each scan, the images must be registered again.

While using an MRI robot, the instrument could be implemented under continual imaging. As a result, real-time changes in instrument path could be made. Making real-time changes in path would be helpful in correcting needle bending. Needle bending can occur from patient movement and breathing and even from the needle moving through tissue. By not moving the patient, potential sources of needle bending and need for image registration would be minimized.