Multi-dimensional Representations of Laparoscopic Simulations for SANETs

Abstract

This paper describes the development of a Sensor-Actuator Network (SANET) middleware environment to model laparoscopic procedures in a simulated environment. This case study examines the use of software agents to represent the organic subject (where the surgical procedure is performed) and the surgical tool/effector being manipulated by the end user (the surgeon performing the operation). Developed using the Belief-Desire-Intention (BDI) agent-based software reasoning approach by Rao and Georgeff (1995), the interaction of the agent elements in the simulation, coupled with the feedback mechanisms as the operator interacts with the simulated tissue, will aid in the simulation of laparoscopic procedures for medical training.