Articles tagged with "minimally-invasive-surgery"
Fast MRI imaging lets doctors steer magnetic microrobots in real time
Researchers at Huazhong University of Science and Technology in China have developed an innovative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technique that enables real-time, artifact-free navigation of magnetic microrobots inside the body. Their multi-frequency dual-echo (MFDE) MRI sequence dramatically reduces the repetition time from about 1,000 milliseconds to just 30 milliseconds, allowing near real-time imaging with high spatial accuracy. This advancement addresses previous challenges in MRI-driven robotic control, such as slow imaging speeds, tracking inaccuracies, and interference between imaging gradients and robot motion. The MFDE method uses dual echoes generated by two adjacent 180-degree radio-frequency pulses and alternates positive and negative offset frequency excitations to maintain image quality despite rapid scanning. The system was validated through experiments including guiding a magnetic microrobot through a complex 3D maze, navigating phantom endovascular models mimicking tortuous vessels, and in vivo navigation within a rat’s large intestine. These demonstrations highlight the potential of this technology for minimally invasive medical
roboticsmagnetic-microrobotsMRI-imagingmedical-roboticsreal-time-navigationminimally-invasive-surgerybiomedical-engineeringDistalmotion raises $150M to accelerate U.S. adoption of DEXTER surgical robot - The Robot Report
Distalmotion SA has raised $150 million in a Series G funding round to accelerate the commercial adoption of its DEXTER soft-tissue surgical robot in the U.S., particularly targeting the rapidly growing ambulatory surgery center (ASC) market. The company plans to use the capital to support ongoing clinical trials and product development. Founded in 2012 as a spinout from the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne (EPFL), Distalmotion aims to expand access to minimally invasive robotic surgery with its mobile, easy-to-use DEXTER system, which is designed to fit into operating rooms of any size without requiring modifications. The DEXTER system features fully wristed, single-use robotic instruments that enhance surgical dexterity and precision, and its sterile console allows surgeons to remain close to patients for improved workflow and communication. It supports flexible transitions between laparoscopic and robotic techniques and is compatible with existing and future operating room technologies. Commercially available in both the U.S. and Europe, the system
roboticssurgical-robotsmedical-technologyminimally-invasive-surgeryhealthcare-roboticsrobotic-surgery-systemssurgical-innovationMagnetic microcatheter rides blood flow for deeper vessel access
Researchers at EPFL have developed MagFlow, an ultraminiaturized magnetic microcatheter that leverages blood flow and magnetism to navigate the body’s narrowest arteries—some thinner than a human hair. Unlike traditional guidewire-based catheters, which are slow, difficult to steer, and risk damaging vessel walls, MagFlow uses the bloodstream’s kinetic energy to move forward, minimizing contact with vessel walls. This innovation could significantly expand treatment options for conditions such as stroke, arteriovenous malformations, and pediatric eye cancers by reaching vessels previously inaccessible to conventional catheters. The device consists of two bonded polymer sheets forming a flexible body capable of inflating to deliver various liquids, including contrast agents and embolizing materials. Steering is achieved through a robotic control system called OmniMag, which uses a magnetic field generator guided by a doctor’s hand movements to precisely orient MagFlow’s magnetic tip. Successful animal trials demonstrated safe navigation through complex, narrow arteries in pigs, delivering therapeutic agents effectively.
robotmedical-roboticsmicrocathetermagnetic-navigationminimally-invasive-surgerybiomedical-engineeringmagnetic-control-systemLaser-activated pill can 3D print bio-ink to repair internal injuries
Researchers at EPFL’s School of Engineering have developed a novel swallowable device called the Magnetic Endoluminal Deposition System (MEDS) that can bioprint living bio-ink directly onto damaged internal tissues, such as those in the gastrointestinal tract. MEDS combines bioprinting technology with magnetically guided capsules, enabling minimally invasive internal wound repair without surgery. The pill-sized device contains a chamber of bio-ink—a living gel scaffold for new cell growth—and uses a spring-plunger mechanism activated externally by a near-infrared laser. An external magnet mounted on a robotic arm then precisely steers the capsule to the injury site, allowing targeted deposition of bio-ink without incisions. Initial tests on artificial stomach tissue demonstrated MEDS’s ability to repair simulated ulcers and seal mock hemorrhages. Subsequent in-vivo experiments in rabbits confirmed safe navigation and retrieval of the capsule via magnetic guidance, as well as successful bio-ink deposition in the gastric tract. The bio-ink
robotbioprintingmedical-devicesmagnetic-guidancebio-inkminimally-invasive-surgerylaser-activationEndoQuest Robotics completes first robotic ESD procedure at Mayo Clinic - The Robot Report
EndoQuest Robotics announced that a surgeon at the Mayo Clinic successfully completed the first robotic endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD) procedure using its Endoluminal Surgical (ELS) System as part of the multicenter PARADIGM Trial. This trial is designed to evaluate the system for lower gastrointestinal tract procedures. Dr. Norio Fukami, a leading expert in therapeutic endoscopy at Mayo Clinic Arizona, performed the 4 cm colorectal lesion removal under an FDA Investigational Device Exemption pivotal trial. He praised the device for its intuitive use, enhanced surgical control through dynamic traction and counter-traction, and its potential to make complex procedures more straightforward and reproducible, representing a significant advancement in endoluminal therapies. EndoQuest developed the ELS System to address the technical challenges and steep learning curve associated with ESD and other advanced endoluminal procedures, which are limited by conventional flexible endoscopes. Preclinical data from Brigham and Women’s Hospital
roboticsmedical-roboticssurgical-robotsendoscopic-surgeryhealthcare-technologyrobotic-surgeryminimally-invasive-surgeryLevita Magnetics' MARS platform uses AI-guided autonomous camera in first surgery - The Robot Report
Levita Magnetics has achieved a significant milestone by performing the world’s first gallbladder surgery using its MARS (Magnetic Autonomous Robotic Surgery) platform equipped with an AI-guided autonomous surgical camera. The procedure took place at Clínica Las Condes in Santiago, Chile. The MARS system integrates magnetic technology, robotics, and artificial intelligence to autonomously guide a surgical camera, enhancing precision and visualization during minimally invasive surgeries. This innovation allows surgeons to have direct control over the camera without relying on an assistant, providing a stable, uninterrupted field of vision critical for complex procedures like cholecystectomy. Founded in 2011, Levita Magnetics has developed minimally invasive surgical platforms, including the FDA-approved Magnetic Surgical System (MSS), used for various abdominal surgeries such as gallbladder, bariatric, prostate, colorectal, and hiatal hernia procedures. The MARS platform builds on this foundation by combining dynamic magnetic positioning with AI to improve efficiency, reduce the number of instruments and
roboticssurgical-roboticsAI-guided-surgeryautonomous-cameramagnetic-assisted-surgeryminimally-invasive-surgerymedical-technologyUniversity of Waterloo researchers develop robots to directly treat kidney stones - The Robot Report
Researchers at the University of Waterloo, led by Dr. Veronika Magdanz, have developed a novel robotic technology aimed at directly treating kidney stones by dissolving them within the urinary tract. Kidney stones affect about 12% of people and often require prolonged drug treatments or surgeries, which can be painful and burdensome. The new minimally invasive approach uses thin, flexible, magnetically controlled strips about 1 cm long, embedded with the enzyme urease. These strips are maneuvered near uric acid kidney stones using a robotic arm guided by doctors, where the enzyme reduces urine acidity, accelerating stone dissolution so they can pass naturally within days. The technology was tested in life-size, 3D-printed urinary tract models and shows promise especially for patients who frequently develop stones or cannot tolerate oral medications or surgery due to risks like chronic infections. The system combines a motorized magnet on a robotic arm with real-time ultrasound imaging to precisely position the enzyme-loaded robots near the stones. Next steps for the
roboticsmedical-robotskidney-stone-treatmentrobotic-armminimally-invasive-surgerybiomedical-engineering3D-printingSwan EndoSurgical debuts to advance GI Robotics
Olympus has partnered with investment firm Revival Healthcare Capital to co-found Swan EndoSurgical, a new company focused on developing an advanced endoluminal robotic system for gastrointestinal (GI) patient care. The joint venture involves a potential investment of up to $458 million, with Revival holding a majority equity stake and Olympus maintaining significant participation and an option to acquire Swan at a predetermined value. This collaboration aims to enhance minimally invasive treatments by improving precision, efficiency, and ergonomics in GI procedures, building upon traditional endoscopy techniques used for early diagnosis and treatment of GI conditions such as cancer. The development of Swan EndoSurgical’s robotic system seeks to overcome the limitations of manual endoscopes by enabling flexible maneuvering and deployment of robotic arms within the GI tract, potentially allowing safer, more effective surgeries that avoid invasive methods. The company has already established an experienced leadership team and will be headquartered in the U.S. Olympus views this partnership as a strategic milestone to reshape the GI market by expanding procedural
roboticssurgical-roboticsmedical-technologyendoluminal-roboticshealthcare-innovationminimally-invasive-surgerygastrointestinal-roboticsRobotic neck surgery replaces heart valve without chest incision
Surgeons at the Cleveland Clinic have successfully performed the world’s first robotic aortic valve replacement (AVR) through a small neck incision, avoiding the traditional chest opening (sternotomy). Led by Dr. Marijan Koprivanac, this transcervical robotic approach offers a less-invasive alternative to conventional AVR, which typically requires opening the chest and results in longer, more painful recoveries. The technique uses robotic arms inserted via a small incision along a natural neck crease, allowing precise removal of the diseased valve and implantation of a prosthetic valve through four small incisions. Four patients underwent this procedure earlier in 2025, all experiencing low pain levels and rapid recovery, with some returning to physical activities within a week. Building on Dr. Koprivanac’s prior experience with transcervical thymectomy, the team refined the AVR technique through cadaver studies before clinical application. Initial cases showed an average cross-clamp time of about 140 minutes, with most patients discharged within
roboticsrobotic-surgerymedical-robotsminimally-invasive-surgeryhealthcare-technologyrobotic-assisted-surgerysurgical-innovationMendaera earns FDA clearance for Focalist handheld robotic system - The Robot Report
Mendaera Inc., based in San Mateo, California, has received FDA 510(k) clearance for its Focalist handheld robotic system, designed to improve the precision and ease of ultrasound-guided needle placement across various medical specialties. This technology aims to address the challenges of needle-based interventions—such as organ access, biopsies, and vascular access—that require high operator skill and experience, which can vary widely and affect patient outcomes. Focalist integrates handheld control, real-time ultrasound imaging, touchscreen targeting, robotic needle positioning, and continuous needle depth tracking to enable consistent, minimally invasive procedures. The company, backed by prominent investors and having raised $73 million in Series B funding led by Threshold Ventures, is positioning Focalist as a new category of handheld robotics to make precision surgery more accessible and efficient. Initial commercialization efforts will focus on urology procedures like percutaneous nephrolithotomy (PCNL), with plans to expand into other specialties. Experts highlight the system’s potential to enhance safety,
roboticsmedical-roboticshandheld-robotic-systemultrasound-guided-proceduresprecision-surgeryminimally-invasive-surgeryhealthcare-technologyIntuitive Surgical obtains CE mark for da Vinci 5 robot - The Robot Report
Intuitive Surgical has received CE mark approval for its latest da Vinci 5 Surgical System, allowing its use for minimally invasive endoscopic procedures in both adult and pediatric patients across Europe. The system is designed for a range of surgeries including urologic, gynecologic, and general laparoscopic procedures within the abdominopelvic and thoracoscopic regions. The da Vinci 5 represents over a decade of development and is described as the company’s most advanced and integrated robotic platform, aiming to improve surgical outcomes, efficiency, and provide actionable insights for future minimally invasive care. The da Vinci 5 system features more than 150 enhancements over previous models, including new surgeon controllers, vibration and tremor controls, and Force Feedback-enabled technology. It offers the most realistic 3D vision system to date and an ergonomic surgeon console to support surgeon longevity. Operational improvements include greater surgeon autonomy, streamlined workflows with a universal user interface, and integrated dynamic assistance to automate certain tasks. The system also incorporates an intelligent
robotsurgical-robotda-Vinci-surgical-systemminimally-invasive-surgerymedical-roboticsrobotic-surgeryhealthcare-technologyDistalmotion makes its first multirobot sale in the U.S. - The Robot Report
Distalmotion has achieved its first multirobot sale in the U.S. with AdventHealth, a large healthcare system operating 50 hospitals across nine states, adopting its DEXTER robotic surgery system to expand minimally invasive procedures. AdventHealth has already completed initial surgeries using DEXTER in its outpatient department, highlighting the system’s alignment with goals for flexibility and efficiency. The DEXTER system, developed by the Lausanne-based company with U.S. offices in Cleveland, is commercially available in both the U.S. and Europe and is designed to simplify operations and broaden access to robotic surgery, particularly in outpatient hospital departments and ambulatory surgical centers. The DEXTER robot addresses the rising demand for surgical robotics in high-volume soft-tissue procedures moving to outpatient settings by offering a mobile, compact, and quickly deployable system that integrates easily into existing workflows. Unique features include a sterile console that allows surgeons to perform bedside tasks without breaking sterility or redocking, and an open architecture compatible with existing instruments
roboticssurgical-robotsmedical-technologyhealthcare-innovationrobotic-surgeryminimally-invasive-surgeryhospital-technologyLevita Magnetics surgical robot receives expanded FDA clearance
Levita Magnetics has received expanded FDA 510(k) clearance for its MARS (magnetic-assisted robotic surgery) system, specifically for use in bariatric and hiatal hernia repair procedures. This expanded indication allows surgeons to treat obesity-related conditions more effectively by enabling simultaneous hiatal hernia repair during bariatric surgery. The system’s Dynamic Magnetic Positioning technology improves surgical access and visibility by retracting the liver in a less invasive manner, reducing the number of incisions needed during abdominal surgeries. Additionally, the FDA cleared Levita’s new 12.5 mm magnetic grasper, designed to enhance control and visualization in patients with high BMI or difficult-to-retract livers by allowing surgeons to grasp the liver more centrally. The MARS system represents a novel approach to robotic surgery by using magnetic forces to internally reposition organs, thereby increasing surgeon control during laparoscopic procedures. It is compact and compatible with existing operating rooms, building on the success of Levita’s earlier Magnetic Surgical System. A notable
robotsurgical-robotmagnetic-assisted-robotic-surgerymedical-roboticsFDA-clearanceminimally-invasive-surgeryrobotic-surgery-technologyUS surgeons perform robotic heart transplant with no chest incision
In a groundbreaking first for the United States, surgeons at Baylor St. Luke’s Medical Center in Houston successfully performed a fully robotic heart transplant without opening the chest or cutting through the breastbone. Conducted in early March 2025 on a 45-year-old man with advanced heart failure, the procedure utilized robotic tools to make small incisions and navigate through the preperitoneal space, enabling the removal of the diseased heart and implantation of the donor organ. This minimally invasive approach significantly reduced surgical trauma, blood loss, infection risk, and improved recovery by preserving the chest wall’s integrity. The robotic heart transplant marks a major advancement in transplant surgery, combining robotic precision with one of medicine’s most complex operations. Unlike traditional open-chest transplants, this method avoids bone cutting, which lowers the need for blood transfusions and reduces the risk of antibody development that can lead to organ rejection. The patient was discharged a month after surgery without complications, highlighting the potential for faster mobilization, better lung
robotrobotic-surgeryheart-transplantmedical-roboticsminimally-invasive-surgerysurgical-robothealthcare-technologySS Innovations completes its first cardiac surgery in the Americas with SSi Mantra - The Robot Report
SS Innovations International Inc. has completed its first robotic cardiac surgery in the Americas using its SSi Mantra 3 surgical robotic system. On June 8, 2024, Dr. Juan Zuniga at Interhospital in Guayaquil, Ecuador, performed a robotic Atrial Septal Defect closure, marking the first such procedure in the Western Hemisphere with this technology. The minimally invasive surgery, which repairs a hole between the heart’s upper chambers, was successful, with the patient recovering well. Interhospital is the first South American hospital to install the SSi Mantra system, which has already been used for various complex surgeries since its installation. The SSi Mantra system is described as a user-friendly, modular, multi-arm robotic platform featuring three to five robotic arms, a 3D 4K monitor, an ergonomic surgeon command center, and advanced imaging capabilities that enhance precision and safety. It supports over 40 types of robotic endo-surgical instruments across multiple specialties, including
robotsurgical-roboticsrobotic-surgerycardiac-surgerymedical-technologyminimally-invasive-surgeryhealthcare-robotics