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Microrobots Revolutionize Fallopian Tube Treatment

Researchers at the SIAT Magnetic Soft Microrobots Lab have discovered an innovative technique for treating fallopian tube obstructions using a magnetically powered robotic microscrew. This research was published in AIP Advances by AIP Publishing.

Magnetic robotic microscrew for oviduct recanalization. The magnetic microrobot clears the blockage based on mechanical motion under the rotating magnetic field. Image Credit: Liu et al.

Infertility affects around 186 million people globally, with fallopian tube obstruction accounting for 11%–67 % of female infertility cases.

This new technology offers a potentially less invasive alternative to the traditional surgical methods currently used to clear tubal obstructions, which often involve the use of conventional catheters and guidewires.

Haifeng Xu, Assistant Professor, Department of Computer Science, University of Chicago

The microrobot is made from a nonmagnetic photosensitive resin and coated with a thin layer of iron to provide magnetic properties. It rotates in response to an external magnetic field, generating translational motion that allows it to navigate through a glass channel designed to simulate a fallopian tube.

In tests, the microrobot successfully cleared a cell cluster placed in the channel, mimicking a typical blockage in the female reproductive system. Its magnetic control enables precise navigation through the delicate and narrow structures of the fallopian tube.

The microrobot’s design is specifically tailored for its function. Its body has a screw-like helical structure, a cylindrical central tube, and a disk-shaped tail. The helical structure is critical for propulsion, while the disk-shaped tail stabilizes its movement. As the screw rotates, it generates a vortex that pushes debris toward the tail, effectively clearing the blockage.

Tests demonstrated that the microrobot efficiently removed the simulated obstruction, with the rotating screw creating a vortex that directed debris away from the blockage site.

Plans include further miniaturizing the microrobot and enhancing its capabilities. The research team also intends to test the robot in isolated organ models and track its movement and position in real time using in vivo imaging technologies. They aim to expand its medical applications, such as developing automatic control systems to improve blockage removal and support other surgical procedures.

Xu concluded, “The ultimate goal is to provide a more effective, minimally invasive solution for patients suffering from infertility.

Journal Reference:

Liu, X., et. al. (2024) Magnetically-driven robotic microscrew for the oviduct recanalization. AIP Advances. doi.org/10.1063/5.0233734

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