Simplified approach to securing the surgical field with a plastic device

The device, made from polyether ether ketone (PEEK) – a material commonly used in medical implants and aerospace applications – is designed to secure the surgical field with minimal effort: 

• Flexible and rigid: The PEEK plate can be fastened into a circular shape that expands to a pre-determined size, maintaining its rigidity to secure the operational space. 

• Customizable dimensions: The plate is 0.4 millimeters thick and comes in various widths and lengths tailored to specific surgical requirements. 

• Reusable design: Its medical-grade material ensures durability, allowing for multiple uses. 

"This flexible yet rigid medical-grade device is simple to use and reusable," said Associate Professor Yosuke Takahashi, one of the developers. 

Developed through collaboration with small and medium-sized enterprises, the surgical field expansion plate has already been tested in live heart surgeries. By eliminating the need for constant adjustments by an assistant, the device allows surgeons to focus solely on the procedure. 

"This plate is expected to make it possible to perform robot-assisted heart surgery that is not dependent on the skill of the assistant, with further applications expected in fields such as oral surgery and otolaryngology," noted Professor Takahashi. 

The surgical expansion plate represents a significant step forward in the integration of robotics and precision tools in minimally invasive surgery. With its simplicity, reusability, and adaptability, this device could reduce the complexity of surgical setups, enhance procedural consistency, and broaden the scope of robot-assisted interventions. 

MEDICA-tradefair.com; Source: Osaka Metropolitan University