Surgeons at the Children’s National and Johns Hopkins University Wednesday reported that their Smart Tissue Autonomous Robot (STAR) is able to suture together separate pieces of a pig’s bowel using a KUKA Robotics arm and 3D imaging to differentiate between tissues, in the first operation performed in living soft tissue, with only an algorithm for guidance. Experts suggest the proof of concept amounts to a significant advance in autonomous robotic surgery, although the technology may be years away from the clinical trials stage or use in operating rooms. Supporters insist such advances make medical robotics a viable commercial opportunity by increasing the efficiency of operations and operating room availability, reducing complications caused by human error, and enabling patients to access the best techniques no matter where they are located.
Surgeons at the Children’s National and Johns Hopkins University this week reported that their Smart Tissue Autonomous Robot (STAR) is able to suture together separate pieces of a pig’s bowel using a KUKA Robotics arm and 3D imaging to differentiate between tissues, in the first operation performed in living soft tissue, with only an algorithm for guidance. Experts suggest the proof of concept amounts to a significant advance in autonomous robotic surgery, although the technology may be years away from the clinical trials stage or use in operating rooms. Supporters insist such advances make medical robotics a viable commercial opportunity by increasing the efficiency of operations and operating room availability, reducing complications caused by human error, and enabling patients to access the best techniques no matter where they are located.