Remote Controlled
Manipulator 

MRI-guided In-bore Prostate Biopsy, What to Expect?

For the biopsy, the patient will be in prone position on a cushioned table in the MRI scanner. An MRI compatible needle guide will be gently placed into the rectum and connected to the RCM. A combination of MR images and dedicated software will be utilized to position the needle guide for optimal targeting of the prostate lesion and take the biopsy.

System Overview

The main component of the system consist of a fully MR compatible manipulator made of high quality plastics. This manipulator is connected via 7-8 meters of tubing to a control unit using a wall feed. The control unit is based in the MR control room and relays the motion derived from the dedicated software system.

Easy Storage

The RCM system typically will be delivered on a cart. This makes the system easy to store and setup for the procedure. It also helps to minimize the clutter in the control room when the system is not used.

Besides the manipulator the cart stores the control unit, air supply via a compressor and optional components like computer/laptop. A long tube connects the control unit with the manipulator inside the MRI room, ideally through a wave guide.

Workflow

With the easy-to-learn workflow the software guides the user through the steps of performing the biopsy. Based on an intuitive tab system the received images are used to reidentify the target area. After the calibration of the device relative to the patient it allows the user to select the target on the MR image and move the needle guide towards this position. A fast scanning sequence confirms the location and enables the physician to take the biopsy sample.

Due to the flexibility of the placement of the RCM on the table plate the users can focus on the positioning of the patient on the scanner table. With the preparation and relative comfortable patient positioning, the procedure can be executed in the least amount of time.

Soteria provides online demonstrations of the Remote Controlled Manipulator for MR-guided prostate biopsies on request. During this interactive demonstration, you will have the opportunity to ask questions to our colleagues and to learn more about the opportunities for your institute.