10.04.2025

A team from NYU Abu Dhabi’s Advanced Microfluidics and Microdevices Laboratory (AMMLab) has developed a sensing system that aims to improve minimally invasive surgery (MIS) by restoring lost tactile feedback. The newly designed “off-the-jaw” sensor system provides real-time feedback on force application, tissue stiffness, and thickness, giving surgeons critical information during procedures.

Image: Two researchers in laboratory examining a surgical demonstration setup equipped with a new sensor-based handle; Copyright: NYU Abu Dhabi

Researchers from NYU Abu Dhabi's AMMLab test the sensor-integrated handle system designed to enhance tactile feedback in minimally invasive surgery

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MIS techniques, known for smaller incisions and reduced recovery times, limit a surgeon’s ability to feel what they’re operating on. This lack of tactile feedback can result in over-grasping or under-grasping tissue, potentially leading to complications.

“Minimally invasive surgery has revolutionized the field, but the lack of tactile feedback remains a challenge,” said Mohammad A. Qasaimeh, Associate Professor of Mechanical Engineering and Bioengineering at NYU Abu Dhabi. “Our new system restores this missing sense of touch, giving surgeons real-time data on tissue stiffness and thickness. This ‘off-the-jaw’ approach not only eliminates contamination risks but also makes the technology easier to integrate without requiring complex modifications to existing surgical tools.”

Practical benefits for training and clinical use

The sensor-integrated handle offers several practical advantages:

Compatible with existing laparoscopic instruments

Cost-effective production and integration

Reduced technical complexity during sterilization

Enhances performance for both experienced and new surgeons

“Early trials have demonstrated a 30 percent improvement in surgical task efficiency, highlighting the practical impact of this technology on surgical performance,” added Wael Othman, Ph.D., Postdoctoral Researcher at AMMLab.

MEDICA-tradefair.com; Source: NYU Abu Dhabi

More about the NYU Abu Dhabi at: nyuad.nyu.edu/en