Improving Biopsy Procedures With Automated Medical Application Solutions - By: Chris Harmen

Biopsy procedures are a fundamental tool for medical personnel to obtain tissue samples and to make accurate diagnosis. Whereas the procedure started as a risky, invasive surgery, advances in medical application solutions have improved biopsies to the minimally invasive procedures that they are today.

However, there is still room for improvement. Today's technology relies on the manual insertion of a cannula, or sampling needle, in order to obtain a tissue sample. Multiple insertions of the cannula are typically required to generate optimal samples, which ultimately increase tissue trauma and patient recovery time.

With the implementation of automated medical application solutions for biopsies, the procedure has evolved again. The latest generation of sampling devices is a handheld, miniaturized unit that utilizes DC micromotors and DC gearmotors in a compact, lightweight unit that can automatically gather multiple samples with one insertion.

Powering An Automated Sampler: DC Micromotors

In order to create an automated sampler that is capable of performing an entire biopsy procedure with only one incision point, a series of DC micromotors are used to create a highly specialized system. Automated medical application solutions for biopsy procedures need to be able to enter the tissue, gather a sample, and then rotate to a new location and repeat the sampling motion.

Three DC micromotors are used to accomplish this task, one to rotate the cutter, one to rotate the outer cannula of the disposable in sync with it, and one to translate the cutter along the axis of the cannula. This setup allows for a sample to be taken and then the cannula can be rotated to other angular positions to continue sampling.

Creating Highly Effective Tools

In order to create a handheld system, small sizes and low weights are a requirement. Using miniaturized DC gearmotors and high gear ratios, such as 64:1, a very small motor can deliver high amounts of torque. DC gearmotors are able to provide the necessary power in the smallest package, allowing the overall system to be both handheld and effective. Utilizing brushed DC micromotors also ensures a high powered system that is durable and can handle the rigors of hospital use.

The system is controlled by a custom micro-controller that handles operation between the motors and sampling system. The setup is a closed system to maintain a barrier between operator and tissue and also helps to eliminate contamination and infection risks. Using a vacuum suction, sample tissue is retained in the probe while liquids are eliminated to facilitate cleanup and sanitation.

To round out the final product, shock testing ensures durability if the unit is dropped. The DC micromotors are subjected to stringent lifecycle testing for use as a high volume tool over many years. Probe calibration is also automated before each use for compliance with medical safety standards.

In the end, automation, miniaturized DC micromotors, and a compact design have created medical application solutions for improved biopsy procedures.

About the Author

Chris Harmen is an author for MICROMO Medical Solutions, the leading medical industry partner providing DC micromotors and DC gearmotors.

Article Directory Source: http://www.articlerich.com/profile/Chris-Harmen/89665

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