The case for MR-compatible robotics: a review of the state of the

Background The numerous imaging capabilities of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) coupled with its lack of ionizing radiation has made it a desirable modality for real-time guidance of interventional procedures. The combination of these abilities with the advantages granted by robotic systems to perform accurate and precise positioning of tools has driven the recent development of MR-compatible interventional and assistive devices. Methods The challenges in this field are presented, including the selection of suitable materials, actuators and sensors in the intense magnetic fields of the MR environment. Results Only a small number of developed systems have made it to the clinical level (only two have become commercial ventures), showing that the field has not yet reached maturity. Conclusions A brief overview of the current state of the art is given, along with a description of the main opportunities, possibilities and challenges that the future will bring to this exciting and promising field. Copyright (c) 2008 John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.