6 Surgical Devices Inspired by Nature

The video explores six nature-inspired surgical innovations, highlighting how biomimicry has led to advancements in medical technology. These include a wasp-inspired tissue extractor, a mosquito-inspired needle, cucumber-inspired robotic manipulators, mussel-inspired surgical glue, worm-inspired skin grafts, and gecko-inspired bandages. Each innovation aims to improve surgical outcomes by mimicking efficient natural processes.

What is a major limitation of current suction-based tissue extractors?

• They are too fast for delicate procedures.

• They can only be used on the skin surface.

• They are prone to clogging and inefficiency.

• They are too expensive for regular use.

The wasp ovipositor-inspired tissue extractor is primarily designed to:

• Increase the speed of tissue removal.

• Simplify the surgical procedure.

• Reduce trauma during surgery.

• Enhance the suction power.

What is the main challenge in developing the wasp ovipositor-inspired tissue extractor?

• Reducing its size for smaller incisions.

• Increasing its suction power.

• Ensuring it is cost-effective.

• Making it faster than current devices.

What is the main advantage of the mosquito proboscis-inspired needle?

• It reduces pain by minimizing tissue displacement.

• It is cheaper to produce.

• It can deliver larger doses of medication.

• It is more durable than traditional needles.

How do cucumber tendril-inspired robotic manipulators improve surgery?

• By eliminating the need for anesthesia.

• By reducing the cost of surgical tools.

• By providing better flexibility and control.

• By increasing the speed of the procedure.

What is a key feature of mussel-inspired glue for fetal surgery?

• It forms a watertight seal to prevent leaks.

• It hardens instantly upon contact.

• It is transparent and easy to apply.

• It is reusable for multiple surgeries.

The worm-inspired skin graft technology uses what mechanism for attachment?

• Magnetic fields.

• Chemical adhesives.

• Swelling cone-shaped needles.

• Heat-activated glue.

Gecko-inspired bandages are particularly useful because they:

• Are reusable and washable.

• Are resistant to bacterial infections.

• Stick without glue and are biodegradable.

• Change color to indicate healing.

What is the primary benefit of using a gecko-inspired bandage in surgery?

• It can be easily removed without pain.

• It can be inserted through small incisions.

• It is resistant to all types of bacteria.

• It provides a strong adhesive bond underwater.

Which natural feature inspired the design of a new type of surgical glue?

• The silk threads of a spider.

• The adhesive properties of a mussel.

• The sticky pads of a frog.

• The resin of a pine tree.