Haptic surgery trainer uses SensAble technology

A medical training company is using a software toolkit from SensAble Technologies of Woburn in a new system that aims to educate doctors about spinal implant technology.

The medical training company is Simulution of Minnesota, and it has just announced the "debut of a haptically-enabled orthopedic surgery simulator" that includes SensAble technology. (SensAble provided the image of the system that appears above this story.)

Simulution said in a press release, "The system helps doctors train and develop expertise on a specific spinal implant technology in a realistic computer-based environment without exposing doctors to prolonged radiation -- a downside to current cadaver-based training -- and with zero risk to the patient."

SensAble describes itself as a "developer of 3D touch-enabled (force feedback) solutions and technology that allow users to not only see and hear an on-screen computer application, but to actually 'feel' it. With 32 patents granted and over 6,000 systems installed worldwide, SensAble Technologies' haptic technology is being used in applications ranging from designing toys and footwear, to surgical simulation and stroke rehabilitation, to dental restorations, as well as a range of research and robotic applications."
(By Chris Reidy, Globe staff)