With the first iteration of our device, we implemented a number of button sensors. These button sensors are used to aid residents as they explore the intrauterine environment and serve as the basis for our timed touch task. The first generation buttons had a number of drawbacks, though, that made it difficult to complete the task. The buttons took an enormous amount of force to register a “touch” and had a small area for the resident to come in contact with. We have transitioned to a design using capacitive touch sensors which require very little force and have a much larger area of contact. With the new touch sensors, we are also able to provide immediate feedback to the user about whether or not a touch was registered through an LED that lights up when the sensor is touched. This addition streamlines our design and removes some of the restrictions associated with the first generation button sensors.

In addition to replacing the touch sensors, we have also implemented two linear track pads to facilitate the trackpad task. These linear track pads display a variable resistance as force is applied along its length. This resistance allows our processing unit to determine how much contact the subject has with the track pad and whether or not they have run the hysteroscope along the length of the pad. The ultimate goal of the track pad task is to have a resident practice touching and moving along the uterine wall. This will increase familiarity with the uterine environment and familiarize the user with the hysteroscope itself.

Another extremely common task during hysteroscopy is polyp removal. After cancerous tissue has been cut away from the healthy tissue of the uterine wall, micrograspers are inserted through the hysteroscope. The surgeon carefully extracts the excised cancer tissue without leaving tendrils or pieces behind. In our task, we will simulate this difficult and delicate procedure by using velcro pads and cotton balls. The velcro pads will be attached to strategic points in the uterus model and the cotton balls will be removed. The surgeon will be assessed on time to completion as well as dexterity in removing the cotton balls without causing smaller pieces to break off or remain attached to the velcro. Our design will not only allow the velcro pads to be easily shifted within the body of the uterus but also will provide a simple simulation of tumor breakup.

Women who wish to obtain permanent contraceptive procedures elect to undergo a particular kind of hysteroscopy. Essure and other products are macroscopically similar to cardiovascular stents. These small tightly coiled metal blocks are inserted into fallopian tubes. Scar tissue forms on and around these blocks and prevents sperm from fertilizing eggs. The first step in this operation requires visualizing both openings of the fallopian tubes. Next the surgeon must adjust the scope so that each fallopian tube is within easy access. The Essure devices have a bump that signifies how far the surgeon may insert the block. In order to simulate this procedure, we have drilled holes in the back corners of the uterus model at anatomically corresponding locations. Dr. Anderson has agreed to provide the hysteroscope tools necessary to carry out the block insertion. We will be able to monitor both the initial step of visualizing each opening by using a proximity sensor and the final step of threading the block into each opening.