IntraROB-a programmable targeting device for interventional radiology

The appropriateness of robotic systems for interventional radiology could be successfully demonstrated by our previous prototype “B-RobI” as well as by other groups. Such robotic targeting devices can serve as the physician's “third hand” providing with a stable and accurate guidance of the medical tool-e.g. a biopsy needle-towards the lesion. For integration of such new technology into clinical practice, robotic systems must be further improved in terms of safety, reliability and easy handling. This paper describes a new design for a robotic targeting device, which is aimed to transfer the proofed concepts from our prototype “B-RobI” into a practical clinical setup. The paper outlines the system modules and a first in vitro study for US-guided biopsies using a needle penetrable phantom.