A pioneer's journey through surgical robotics

How surgical robotics revolutionized minimally invasive procedures

Originally developed to help surgeons transition from open surgery to minimally invasive techniques, robots were first designed to maintain precision when working through small punctures rather than large incisions. This session follows the journey of surgical robotics, from its early cardiac indications to modern neurointervention, highlighting how precise tool maneuverability and 3D vision offer clinicians superior control.

Today, surgical robotics helps tackle critical challenges, such as treating complex aneurysms with precise device placement and enabling remote access to care for time-sensitive diseases like stroke.

As Frederic Moll notes: “The robotic capability has to fit the task that you’re trying to accomplish.” Robotics must start by automating well-understood procedures before expanding into therapeutic delivery for catheter-based or surgical interventions. However, this progress must be careful and uncompromised: patient safety always comes first.