Description

Fibres, known for their thin, long, and flexible design, are widely used in light transfer applications. Advances in fibre fabrication technology expanded their functions, with applications in energy delivery, sensing, and lately, robotics. These advancements have transcended fibres’ traditional roles and found innovative applications in various fields, including medicine. Within the medical field, particularly in minimally invasive surgery (MIS), fibres are employed for surgical instrument delivery and navigation, enabling precision during procedures. Fibre optics are crucial in surgical laser ablation, providing pinpoint accuracy for tissue removal. Furthermore, fibres are instrumental in shape and position sensing, enhancing surgical precision and facilitating surgical imaging for real-time visualization. Beyond MIS, fibres contribute to vital sign detection, including the monitoring of cardiac signals and biomedical sensing, improving patient care and diagnostic capabilities.

As we explore the evolving landscape of fibre technology, questions arise regarding its potential breakthroughs for the next generation. Are there challenges in the translation of recent advancements into practical applications? This workshop will provide an opportunity for experts in the fibre and medical field to hear more opinions and feedback from different research fields, identify the difficulties of its practical utilization, and discuss the future directions of fibre technology in the medical field. Also, this workshop will provide an overview of the cutting-edge developments in fibre technology.

Programme

Learning Outcomes

• Firstly, experts in the field will talk about their group’s latest developments both from a fundamental materials and fabrication point of view, as well as in applications. From these talks, the conference is expected to facilitate an in-depth exploration of emerging trends and innovations in fibre technology within the medical context.
• Secondly, the workshop will enhance the ideas exchanged between experts from different fields, including technology, healthcare, and research. Each speaker will have a Q&A session to answer the questions and concerns of researchers from different fields. The networking opportunities in this workshop will improve interdisciplinary collaborations.
• Thirdly, the workshop will end with a round table session to discuss the key findings in the workshop and brainstorm the future directions of medical fibre technology.