Robotically assisted CT-based procedures

Since the beginning of 2007 the first six robotically assisted CT- based clinical punctures were performed with a new CEcertified assistance device with CT and MRI compatibility. The cases treated include bone and soft- tissue interventions, closed reduction and percutaneous fixation of pelvic fractures, radiofrequency ablation ( RFA) and drainage within a Multifunctional Image- Guided Therapy Suite ( MIGTS) under interdisciplinary conditions. The device was successfully integrated within the operating room environment of the MIGTS. The results of the robotically assisted CT- based procedures are promising. Even though further experience is needed in view of team experience, decrease of intervention time and system modifications, the first clinical cases demonstrate the feasibility of the system for various application types. The support offered by the device for trajectory planning, insertion point recognition, and needle guidance is especially beneficial for complex punctures with small target volumes or off- plane trajectories.