Fraunhofer Microlenses

Consider these points: 1) any surgical procedure that can be done on an out-patient basis, will be done that way; 2) minimally invasive techniques convert in-patient procedures to out-patient procedures; and 3) visualization is the key to minimally invasive endoscopic technology. Researchers at the Fraunhofer Institute for Microelectronic Circuits and Systems (Duisburg, Germany) have developed a microlens camera that can capture two beams of light for a 3-D image.  This seems to be a move in the right direction, but a thoracic surgeon who now relies on video assist, likens this kind of better visualization to creating a smaller VCR tape.  “What we need,” he said, “is a whole new concept.”  MORE

Image Credit:  Fraunhofer Institue