Needle Insertion Mechanism for Ultrasound-guided Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy Access

Poulin, Amber; Rivas, Desiree

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Needle Insertion Mechanism for Ultrasound-guided Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy Access

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Percutaneous Nephrolithotomy (PCNL) is often considered the standard treatment for large renal calculi (kidney stones). While the surgical procedure is incredibly safe and well-tolerated, it presents risks like any other invasive operation. Ineffective needle insertion for percutaneous access can not only cause injury to nearby organs but also cause internal bleeding, infection, and urine leakage. These challenges are primarily presented due to the lack of alignment between the ultrasound probe, needle, and the patient’s tissue or targeted renal regions. While previous work achieved a moderately accurate alignment, they failed to produce clear images of the target which resulted in inconsistent data. Our goal with this project is to find the most stable and consistent method by which a needle can be inserted accurately and be released smoothly with a quick-release mechanism. We researched existing needle quick-release mechanisms and put together some designs that fit the scope of this project and printed the models for testing. We conducted an angle analysis of the needle at a resting position and at the extremes at which it can move along that axis. Through continuous redesigning, printing, and testing many iterations, we came to a design that is simple yet effective in performing stable needle insertion and easy release. Although our design is not perfect, it addressed the strong need for needle accuracy during an invasive procedure. With continued work, this device will make PCNL procedures quick and easy for the surgeon.

This report represents the work of one or more WPI undergraduate students submitted to the faculty as evidence of completion of a degree requirement. WPI routinely publishes these reports on its website without editorial or peer review.

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