Scientists have developed a new smart needle with a tiny camera that permits surgeons to see at-risk blood vessels. They can avoid injuring these.
The advance is set to make brain surgery safer.
The minute imaging probe encased with a brain biopsy needle ensures that surgeons see blood vessels while inserting the needle.
This will help them to avoid bleeds that can have the potential to be fatal.
It is a smart needle with a tiny fibre optic camera the size of a human hair. It shines infrared light to see the vessels before the needle can cause any damage.
Computer itself attached to the smart needle recognises blood vessels and alerts the surgeon. Smart needle will be ready for clinical trials in the coming year.
To have a tool that recognises blood vessels as one proceeds through the brain would revolutionise neurosurgery.
It will increase the chances of safer surgery.
