Automated robotic needle biopsies guided by CT imaging

Automated Planning and Robotic Delivery of Needle Biopsies under CT Image Guidance

NIH-funded research University of California, San Diego · NIH-11168943

This study is testing a new robotic system that helps doctors take lung cancer biopsies more safely and accurately by using CT scans to guide the needle, making the process easier for patients and reducing the chance of complications.

Quick facts

Grant typeR01 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionUniversity of California, San Diego NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (La Jolla, United States)
Project IDNIH-11168943 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on improving the process of needle biopsies for lung cancer diagnosis by using an autonomous robotic system guided by CT imaging. The approach aims to enhance patient safety and accuracy by minimizing human error during the procedure, which traditionally involves multiple manual adjustments. The robotic system is designed to operate within the CT scanner, allowing for precise targeting of lung lesions while reducing the risk of complications such as pneumothorax and bleeding. By utilizing artificial intelligence, the system plans the optimal path for needle placement, ensuring a more efficient and safer biopsy process.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals at high risk for lung cancer who require a biopsy for definitive diagnosis.

Not a fit: Patients who do not require a lung biopsy or those with conditions that contraindicate biopsy procedures may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to safer and more accurate lung cancer diagnoses, potentially improving patient outcomes and survival rates.

How similar studies have performed: Other research has shown promise in using robotic systems for surgical procedures, indicating potential success for this novel approach in biopsy procedures.

Where this research is happening

La Jolla, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.