Technology Generator

De La Salle University
Project leader: Dr. Nilo T. Bugtai

The Problem

Conventional laparoscopic tools can be quite stressful to use and lack the mobility needed for more precise procedures. These tools may also cause musculoskeletal problems to the surgeons due to awkward positions when performing laparoscopic surgeries.

Medical technology, specifically in the field of surgery, has since been adapting to newer and more advanced technologies. Less invasive and more accurate surgical robots were developed for faster recovery rates and less scarring. Although these surgical robots have proven to be more efficient, most surgical robots are costly and difficult to obtain for local hospitals in the Philippines.

The Solution

The Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Health Technologies, under De La Salle University, and in collaboration with the St. Luke’s Medical Center, developed and designed LAPARA, a robotic articulating laparoscopic instrument. LAPARA would enable precise movements through the robotic arm that utilizes joint articulation to mimic hand and arm movement. Its modular design features interchangeable parts to eliminate the need for additional reconfiguration. 

Project Team

Engineers from the Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Health Technologies (IBEHT) partnered with medical experts from St. Luke’s Medical Center to develop an accessible and cost-friendly surgical robot system. With the collaboration of these two institutions, the project hopes to foster the development of surgical devices as a center of medical device research for engineers and researchers.

Product Development Stage

The device is currently at Technology Readiness Level (TRL) 4. The system has passed through safety testing such as mechanical testing, electrical testing, and electro-magnetic compatibility (EMC) Testing. Pre-clinical testing with the surgeons using pig cadaver is to be done before the end of the current phase.

Contact Information

Dr. Nilo T. Bugtai
Director, Institute of Biomedical Engineering and Health Technologies
nilo.bugtai@dlsu.edu.ph