3D Robust Online Motion Planning for Steerable Needles in Dynamic Workspaces Using Duty-Cycled Rotation

This work presents a closed-loop strategy for 3D online motion planning of beveled steerable needles using duty-cycled rotation. The algorithm first selects an entry point that minimizes a multi-criteria cost function and then combines an RRT-based path planner with an intraoperative replanning algorithm and workspace feedback information to constantly update the needle inputs and adjust the trajectory. Simulations in a workspace based on a typical prostate needle steering scenario show that the algorithm is robust against disturbances and model uncertainties and can provide online trajectories to avoid obstacles even under the presence of physiological motion.