Design and characterization of a laser-based instrument with spectroscopic feedback control for treatment of vascular lesions: the "Smart Scalpel".

To improve the effectiveness of microsurgical techniques, we are developing a semi-autonomous robotic surgical tool (called the "Smart Scalpel") as an alternate approach to treatment of vascular lesions. The device employs optical reflectance spectroscopy as part of a line scan imaging system to identify and selectively target blood vessels in a vascular lesion for thermal treatment with a focused laser beam. Our proof-of-concept reported here presents the design and construction of a prototype instrument, initial quantification of imaging system resolution and contrast, and preliminary verification of the imaging and targeting strategies with standard targets and live dermal tissue.