Research Description

Minimally invasive surgery has dramatically changed the practice of medicine. A variety of mechanical and energy-imparting devices are used to manipulate and modify tissues within the body without the need for large incisions. These procedures are guided by X-ray, ultrasound, optical, or magnetic resonance imaging techniques. These technologies allow physicians to operate without the need for large incisions,
dramatically reducing the need for inpatient care and pain medication, and improving outcomes. The laboratory investigates a variety of laser applications for cardiovascular, ophthalmologic, orthopedic, urologic, and neurosurgical procedures. Studies are underway to develop improved "optical biopsy techniques" to further reduce the invasiveness of surgery. Several new technologies including terahertz imaging, laser-based destruction of bacteria, and artificial muscles for
prosthetic applications are under investigation.