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A sensory-guided surgical micro-drill

This paper reports on an innovative single function surgical robotic drill applied in theatre for creating cochleostomies (http://www.medgadget.com/2007/04/robotic_microdr.html). This was the first time for a device to be applied in theatre, offering automated precision and consistency of tool point position with respect to tissues in real time. The results confirmed tolerance to the surgical environment and patient involuntary movement. The assessment by surgeons (W.Grolman@umcutrecht.nl) confirmed an alternative significant market for single function robots in surgical procedures with adaptability to variable surgical protocol and tissue environments. The IP is currently under license with the manufacturer Sapere_Systems Ltd (Fiona.marston@dial.pipex.com).