Robot-Assisted Transurethral Resection of Bladder Tumors

Based on National Cancer Institute statistics, bladder cancer acounted for 4.4% of all new cancer cases in 2013, rendering it the 6th most common one. However, it has the highest treatment costs per patient due to high recurrence rate partly associated with incomplete tumor resection on initial TUR. In addition, Current surgical tool limitations hinder accurate and complete tumor resections and visualization; result in improper staging and increase rates of perforations and tumor recurrence.This project focuses on enabling higher precision, safer, and more dexterous resection and surveillance of bladder tumors. The proposed technology will reduce surgeon burden, improve resection accuracy, and hopefully reduce recurrence rates, trauma, and patient treatment cost.