Towards Tactile Sensing Of The Epidural Needle Into The Spinal Column

The accurate placement of a needle into the spinal column is critical for spinal anesthesia, spinal taps, and other spinal procedures. Currently, the insertion of the needle is guided by visual and palpation feedback, which can be limited in accuracy and reliability. This study presents a novel approach to providing tactile feedback during needle insertion into the spinal column. This study aims to investigate the effectiveness of providing feedback during the insertion of a needle into the epidural column. The study uses a force-sensing resistor that is placed at the base of the needle. As the needle is inserted into the spinal column, the sensors measure the resistance and force encountered by the needle. These measurements are transmitted to a computer system that processes the data and generates real-time graphical feedback. The system was tested on a phantom model that simulates the spinal column. The results showed that the tactile feedback provided by the system improved the accuracy of needle placement and fewer tries at needle insertion were needed. The proposed tactile feedback system has the potential to improve the accuracy and safety of needle placement during spinal procedures.