Hi everyone!
My project this summer involves using pneumatics to precisely control a needle that will pass through the foramen ovale, a small, natural hole in the skull near your cheek, and enter the hippocampus. When the needle is properly positioned, radiofrequency ablation will be utilized to "cook", or destroy, the majority of the hippocampus tissue as a treatment for epilepsy patients. This whole procedure will be performed when the patient is inside an MRI so the position of the needle can be carefully monitored. Pneumatics is an excellent source of power for this procedure because it requires very few magnetic or electrical components, and therefore is MRI-friendly.
Something interesting I have been learning about is working with patient data and the Institutional Review Board. We want to get 3D images of various skulls and brains so we can model the trajectory of the needle, but that requires using patients MRI and CT scans. It has been valuable to learn how specific IRB exemptions can be and how careful you have to be in research to protect patient's identity and ensure data is anonymous.
While I feel at this point I have a good understanding of the project, I am exciting to learn more and more details and challenges that are involved with this exciting research.
Shout out to Donny.... just for being Donny.
P.S. Last night I enjoyed the MOST DELICIOUS biscuits I have ever had at the famous "Loveless Cafe" in Nashville.
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