Force-sensitive tactile sensor for minimal access surgery.

A new approach to detecting abnormalities in organ tissue, particularly in relation to minimal access surgery, is presented. Prototype sensors, based on piezoresistive material, were developed and assembled into a forceps for evaluation on simulated diseased tissue. Data on the resilience and location of phantom tumours were recorded and displayed visually for ease of interpretation. Both single sensor and multiple sensor arrays (one- and two-dimensional) were manufactured and tested.