Despite their extensive training, experienced surgeons are not necessarily infallible during surgical procedures. Many errors that occur during surgery can be attributed to fatigue and stress. The long shifts that surgeons work can affect their judgment and performance. When surgeons aren’t at their peak, mistakes happen. Like when one Austrian surgeon amputated the wrong leg on their patient.

However, miscommunication, fatigue, and stress in operating rooms are becoming more easily mitigated with the integration of robotics in surgery. Robotics in surgery, or robotic-assisted surgery, is increasingly creating safer operating environments by reducing human error, enhancing precision, minimizing risk of infection, and much more.

What is Robot Assisted Surgery?

Robotic-assisted surgery has become increasingly popular in recent years. According to Grand View Research, the global surgical robot market size was valued at $4.4 billion in 2022 and is forecasted to grow at a CAGR of 18% from 2023-2030. Robotic-assisted surgery is a type of minimally invasive surgery that integrates robotic systems to aid surgeons during procedures. Integrating multiple robotic arms, surgeons can control specialized instruments from a console (Figure 1). Surgeons use a series of hand and foot controls to manipulate robotic arms and perform procedures. Surgical robotics systems may also include cameras that provide a high-definition view of surgical sites and internet of things (IoT) devices like sensors to provide real-time insights into patient vitals.

5 Surgical Robot Benefits

Robotic-assisted surgery allows surgeons to operate with a high level of accuracy and precision. Robotics in surgery is making operating rooms safer in several ways:

1. Precise and Consistent Movements – One of the most significant benefits of robotic surgery is the precision and accuracy it offers. Robots are designed to move in a very controlled and consistent manner, which reduces the chances of human error.
2. Less Invasive – Robotic surgery is less invasive than traditional surgery, which means that patients experience less pain and discomfort, and they have a shorter recovery time. The smaller incisions also reduce the risk of infection and bleeding.
3. Enhanced Visualization – Robotic surgery offers enhanced visualization, which allows surgeons to see the surgical site in more detail than ever before. This means that they can identify and address potential issues more effectively, and with greater precision.
4. Reduced Blood Loss – The precise and controlled movements of robotic systems can reduce blood loss during surgery, which is particularly beneficial in complex procedures.
5. Improved Ergonomics – Robotic surgery systems are designed with ergonomics in mind, which means that surgeons can perform procedures in a more comfortable and natural position. This reduces the risk of fatigue and strain injuries, which can affect surgeons during long procedures.

Overall, robotic surgery is making operating rooms safer by reducing the risk of human error, improving visualization and precision, and reducing the risk of complications and patient harm.

Types of Surgical Robots

Robot-assisted surgery can be used in a wide range of surgical procedures, such as prostatectomies, hysterectomies, and cardiac surgeries. It offers several benefits, including reduced pain and scarring, faster recovery times, and lower risk of complications. There are various types of surgical robots, each designed for different types of procedures and surgical specialties. Some of the most common types of surgical robots include:

Laparoscopic surgical robots are robots that are used in minimally invasive procedures such as laparoscopic surgeries. They use small instruments that can be inserted into the body through tiny incisions. Intuitive, founded in 1995, is the maker of da Vinci surgical systems (Figure 2). Da Vinci systems are a popular choice for laparoscopic surgical procedures. UC Health reports that there are more than 1,700 da Vinci systems installed in hospitals worldwide, and more than 775,000 patients have had a da Vinci procedure.

Da Vinci systems are also popular cardiac surgical robots. Cardiac surgical robots are used in cardiac surgery like heart bypass surgeries.

Orthopedic surgical robots are robots that are used in orthopedic surgeries, such as joint replacements. They can assist surgeons in making precise cuts and positioning implants with greater accuracy. Stryker’s Mako (Figure 3) is a type of robotic-arm system that is a popular device in joint replacement surgeries. The Robot Report cites that there are more than 650 Mako robots placed globally. Since 2018, 76,900 knee and hip replacement procedures have been performed through their use.

Neurosurgical robots are robots used in neurosurgery procedures, such as brain surgeries. They can provide a stable platform for the surgeon to operate on and can help reduce the risk of complications. Neuromate® by Renishaw (Figure 4) is a type of stereotactic robot that is utilized in neurosurgical procedures. Neuromate has been used in thousands of electrode implantation procedures for deep brain stimulation (DBS), stereoelectroencephalography (SEEG), and other stereotactic applications.

These are just a few examples of the types of surgical robots that are available. As technology continues to advance, we can expect to see more specialized robots developed for specific surgical procedures and specialties.

What Does the Future Look Like for Robotics in Surgery?

As technology continues to advance and new applications for robotic systems continue to be developed, the future of robotics in surgery is poised to increase autonomy, further integrate artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML), enhance haptic feedback (provide surgeons with a sense of touch), and introduce augmented reality systems. The future of robotics in surgery will lead to more precise and effective surgical procedures with fewer complications and improved patient outcomes.

If you’re interested in developing a robotic innovation, Symmetry Electronics has several solutions available. Our team of Applications Engineers are experts in IoT design and can assist you in developing your robotic solution. Consultation is free and available throughout your design cycle. Contact Symmetry Electronics today!