Smart scalpels could improve surgeon training and lead to more procedures by robots

Researchers who studied data captured by the scalpel during trials found its sensors could accurately track how much force users were applying during surgical procedures, and how they were controlling the device over time. Their findings are published in Communications Engineering.

Sensor data analysis showed the technology – which is equipped with a newly developed force-sensing system – could assess this skill as effectively as traditional evaluation methods, which involve visual assessment by experienced practitioners.

According to the University, the low-cost device consists of a scalpel connected to a sensor-loaded circuit board fitted inside its handle. The research team designed a machine learning model that analyses data captured as force is applied by scalpel users.

While the level of force applied is known to be important in surgery, there have been few tools until now capable of measuring it in real-life settings. These types of measurements have also never been used in traditional assessments of surgical skill, the team said.