Robotics

The world of medical robotics – a field that is redefining the boundaries between advanced technology and human healthcare.

A robot is originally a mechanical device with programmable functionality that makes it possible to perform tasks that are repetitive or dangerous for us humans. In medicine, it has taken on a transformative role in the meantime. These advanced systems are now combined with artificial intelligence (AI) to extend their functionality, enabling them to perform complex tasks in medicine – such as surgical procedures and diagnostics – with a precision and efficiency that sometimes surpasses human action.

However, robots will not make humans superfluous in medicine. While the integration of robots and AI into medicine offers countless advantages, it also raises profound ethical questions, for example regarding accountability in the event of errors, patient autonomy, data protection and the accessibility of these technologies.

On this page you will find a wealth of information ranging from the latest trends in robotics to ethical discussions and practical applications. We provide you with current and exciting insights that are of particular interest to medical professionals: Be it doctors, who can be relieved in the operating room thanks to robotics, nursing staff, physiotherapists, radiologists, as well as pharmacy or laboratory technology specialists.

In surgery, established robots such as the Da-Vinci surgical robot enable minimally invasive procedures with a precision that is almost impossible to achieve manually. This helps to shorten recovery times for patients. Find out more about the possible applications of robotic surgery and discover surgical flexibility with Dexter.

In rehabilitation, robotic systems support patients in regaining mobility and motor skills. Find out in our article how robots in intensive care units 'get people up and running'.

In the field of prosthetics and orthopedics, robots are revolutionizing the production and functionality of prostheses in order to better simulate natural movements. In addition to robotic prostheses that are controlled by the wearer's movements, more and more exoskeletons are coming onto the market as assistive systems for people. These are worn on extremities such as the lower leg or arm to support the movement of the limbs. Exoskeleton models that are worn on both legs can enable people with paralysis to move more independently and without a wheelchair.

In diagnostics, robotic systems facilitate precise imaging procedures. During examinations, for example, they can help to position patients precisely. This improves the quality of images and enables faster and more accurate diagnoses.

When administering medication and in nursing care, assistant robots take over repetitive tasks and relieve the burden on medical staff. Out interview 'Learning to recognize delirium with the android patient' offers insights into training with robots in nursing. Based on robotics, and in combination with AI solutions, a wide range of assistance technologies for the care sector can be developed.

Precision in robot-assisted systems enables minimally invasive procedures, which leads to faster patient recovery. This involves a human controlling a robot that holds surgical instruments. A notable example of this is the use of robotic arms in the operating room, which allow surgeons to work in a seated position, improving precision and ergonomics.

They increase productivity and consistency in treatment and care by taking over monotonous or dangerous tasks. Despite these benefits, the integration of robots into the healthcare sector also poses challenges. The cost of purchasing and maintaining such systems is often high. The risk of technical errors and the need for extensive training to operate the complex systems represent significant hurdles.

There are also concerns about dependence on the technology and ethical issues. These include the impact on the doctor-patient relationship. In this context, funding for the development of partially autonomous surgical operations is an important step towards addressing such challenges. Read more about the funding for the development of partially autonomous procedures here.

In medicine today, medical robots are used in a variety of areas. This includes surgical robots such as the Da Vinci system for precise surgical procedures and robots in nursing that help with patient care. An interesting area is the development of exoskeletons, such as in Project MARCH, which assist with rehabilitation.

Recent advances include the development of autonomous systems capable of assisting surgeons in the operating room. These systems are equipped with advanced sensors and algorithms that enable precise assistance.

The Da Vinci system is a leading example of a robot-assisted intervention. In Germany, this system is increasingly being used in large medical centers and specialized clinics, especially in cities such as Berlin, Munich and Hamburg. This robot enables surgeons to operate with unsurpassed precision and is used in a variety of surgical disciplines, from urology to gynecology.

Various case studies illustrate the successful use of robots in medicine. We will also see innovations such as mobile hygiene robots in hospitals, which serve as cleaners, and new forms of assistance such as helping hands in the clinic and robotic arms such as those from MEDICA exhibitor Stäubli Tec-Systems Gmbh. Robots can also take over logistic tasks in the clinic.

Current trends point towards ever deeper integration of advanced technologies. We expect an increase in robots that can not only assist, but also perform tasks independently. This will usher in a new era of personalized medicine, in which robotic systems offer tailored solutions for individual patient needs.

Another point is that the use of robotics in medicine will expand beyond traditional areas such as surgery and diagnostics into areas such as long-term care and remote monitoring.

Artificial intelligence (AI) will play a key role in the automated or semi-automated medical procedures. By integrating AI into robotic systems, these devices can become smarter, more autonomous, and more adaptable. AI enables robots to learn from experience, adapt to new situations and make complex decisions. This could lead to increased efficiency and accuracy in patient care.

Despite the enormous potential, there are challenges and limitations that may influence the development of medical robots. These include ethical concerns, the necessary data protection, patient safety and the need to adequately train and educate medical staff. In addition, issues of cost-effectiveness and access for all patients are important.