Applications of robotics in medicine

Robots in the medical field have altered the way surgeries are performed, expanding the capabilities into other areas of healthcare.

Now, robots are used within operating rooms as well as clinical settings, supporting healthcare workers and enhancing patient care. This revolution has been enhanced by COVID-19, acting as a catalyst in the deployment of robots in hospitals and clinics for a wider range of tasks to reduce exposure to the virus.

Throughout the pandemic, AI has proven its importance in assessing data from patient scans, identifying treatment options for patients, and improving administrative operations in hospitals.

Streamlining operational efficiencies, providing higher quality patient care and a safer working environment mean the benefits of robotics in medicine speak for themselves. As technology continues to evolve, robots will function more autonomously, eventually performing tasks solo.

With many applications of robotics within medicine, Electronic Specifier rounds up the five most common use cases.

Surgical-assistance robots

Helping surgeons to perform complex micro procedures and minimally invasive surgeries, surgical assistance robots have become more precise as motion control technologies have advanced. Surgical assistance robotics is evolving to make increased use of AI. Eventually, AI enabled robots will use computer vision to navigate to specific areas of the body, whilst avoiding obstacles such as nerves and muscle. There is even potential for surgical robots to complete tasks autonomously, including suturing, meaning surgeons can just oversee procedures.

Robotics plays a role in training surgeons as well, utilising AI and virtual reality to provide training to new surgeons. Surgeons can utilise the virtual environment to practice procedures and improve skills.

Modular robots

Used to enhance other systems, modular robots can be configured to perform multiple different functions, including therapeutic exoskeleton robots and prosthetic robotic limbs.

For example, therapeutic robots can be used within rehabilitation, paralysis, brain injury or multiple sclerosis. Equipped with AI and depth cameras, they can monitor patients throughout the completion of prescribed exercises. They can precisely measure the degrees of motion in different positions and track progress.

Service robots

Service robots can handle logistical tasks, autonomously sending reports when a task has been complete, relieving part of the pressure from healthcare staff.

Able to set up patient rooms, track supplies and restock medical supplies means that service robots allow healthcare workers to focus on patient needs instead.

Social robots

Social robots can interact directly with humans, providing a social interaction and monitoring in long-term care environments. Generally, social robots work to help reduce healthcare workers workloads and improve patients’ emotional wellbeing.

Mobile robots

Mobile robots can be used for various applications, including disinfecting rooms, transporting patients, or moving machinery. These robots move around by following a wire or predefined track.

The future

Health robotics will continue to evolve alongside advancements in machine learning, data analytics and computer vision, eventually meaning robots evolve to complete tasks autonomously, efficiently, and accurately. The potential for AI and robotics in healthcare is limitless. Soon, expect to see the introduction of telesurgery, which will allow surgeons to provide treatment without the need for travel. If COVID has demonstrated anything, its that the adoption of technology can happen much faster than ever expected, and in the health industry, this is not stopping any time soon.