Terrence McKenna
Papers
2
Total Citations
89
H-Index
2
About
Terrence McKenna is a leading figure in the field of soft robotics for minimally invasive surgery (MIS), where his work has fundamentally reshaped how surgical tools interact with delicate tissue. His research focuses on the design and fabrication of compliant, atraumatic instruments that can be deployed through small incisions, directly addressing the high morbidity rates associated with complex procedures like the laparoscopic Whipple. McKenna’s major contribution lies in pioneering the use of shape deposition manufacturing (SDM) to create soft, multi-material surgical graspers. His most-cited work, "Shape Deposition Manufacturing of a Soft, Atraumatic, and Deployable Surgical Grasper" (2015, 51 citations), details a novel grasper that combines rigid and compliant elements for safe retraction and manipulation. This was preceded by a foundational 2014 paper (38 citations) that applied the same principles to the specific challenges of pancreaticoduodenectomy. By replacing rigid, trauma-inducing tools with soft, deployable alternatives, McKenna’s research has opened a new pathway toward safer, more effective robotic and manual MIS, making him a pivotal innovator in the quest to reduce surgical complications.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
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