Commercialization of ophthalmic surgery assist robot by Kyushu University

On April 17, Kyushu University, Tokyo Institute of Technology, Juntendo University, Yamaguchi University and RIVERFIELD announced the joint development and successful commercialization of 'OQrimo,' an intraocular endoscope and intraocular illumination holding robot. An application for sales approval of general medical devices submitted by RIVERFIELD to the Pharmaceuticals and Medical Devices Agency (PMDA) was accepted on April 13. The product is an assist robot exclusively designed for ophthalmic surgery and developed at the request of ophthalmologists. The robot holds the intraocular endoscope and intraocular illumination (light guide) necessary for surgery and can be freely guided to the intended position using a foot controller.

Traditionally, the surgeon holds a tool such as an endoscope in one hand while performing the actual surgery with the other hand. The gimbal structure adopted in the robot ensures smooth and precise movement as if it were a surgeon's 'third hand.' The safety device can be operated instantly with a foot pedal. The surgeon can use both hands to perform the surgery, which can be of a great help in difficult surgeries that require highly precise and speedy procedures. The robot is also provided with a mapping screen (liquid crystal) that assists in determining the intraocular space, enabling a more intuitive operation.

Members involved in the development are as follows: Professor Koh‐Hei Sonoda of the Graduate School of Medical Sciences, Kyushu University; Associate Professor Kotaro Tadano of Laboratory for Future Interdisciplinary Research of Science and Technology, Institute of Innovative Research (IIR), Tokyo Institute of Technology; Professor Shintaro Nakao of Graduate School of Medicine, Juntendo University; Professor Kazuhiro Kimura of Graduate School of Medicine, Yamaguchi University; and RIVERFIELD.

The name of the robot, 'OQrimo,' was coined by combining the Latin words 'oculous,' meaning eye, and 'rimor,' meaning explorer, to express the characteristics of the robot as an explorer who thoroughly observes the interior of the eyes. 'OQ' represents both eyes; particularly, 'Q' is intended to evoke the image of observation through an intraocular endoscope.

External dimensions are 517 millimeters (mm) (width) × 735 mm (depth) × 1358 mm (height), excluding the arm. The main unit weighs 90 kilograms (kg) (excluding the 5‐kg weight of the foot controller). The rated voltage is 100 to 220 V AC. The sales price and date of release will be determined after approval by the PMDA.