Description: Surgical robots are advanced devices designed to assist surgeons during medical procedures. These robotic systems allow for interventions with exceptional precision and control, minimizing trauma to tissues and speeding up patient recovery. Typically, surgical robots consist of robotic arms, high-definition cameras, and specialized tools that are controlled from a console by the surgeon. Robotics in surgery not only enhances the accuracy of movements but also provides a three-dimensional view of the surgical area, allowing doctors to make more informed decisions. Additionally, these robots can perform movements that are difficult or impossible to achieve with human hands, such as suturing in tight spaces. The integration of robotics into surgery has revolutionized the medical field, offering new possibilities for minimally invasive procedures and improving outcomes for patients.
History: The development of surgical robots began in the 1980s, with the first robotic system, the ‘PUMA 560’, used in surgery in 1985. However, it was in 2000 that the ‘da Vinci’ system from Intuitive Surgical became the first surgical robot approved by the FDA for performing surgical procedures on humans. Since then, technology has rapidly evolved, with improvements in precision, visualization, and the ability to perform more complex procedures.
Uses: Surgical robots are used in a variety of medical procedures, including urological, gynecological, cardiac, and orthopedic surgeries. Their ability to make smaller incisions and maneuver in tight spaces makes them ideal for minimally invasive operations, resulting in fewer complications and shorter recovery times for patients.
Examples: A prominent example of a surgical robot is the ‘da Vinci’ system, which is widely used in procedures such as prostatectomy and hysterectomy. Another example is the ‘Mako’, which is used in orthopedic surgery for performing knee and hip replacements with high precision.
