Robotics for neuroendovascular intervention: Background and primer

Area of Science:

• Medical Robotics
• Neurosurgery
• Telemedicine

Background:

• The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of robotic-assisted surgery and telemedicine.
• Robotic assistance in neurovascular intervention is gaining traction for tele-stroke models.
• Progress in medical robotics is building on lessons from cardiology and neurosurgery.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review robot types, clinical justification, and ethics in robotic surgery.
• To provide an overview of current robotic applications in various surgical fields.
• To discuss the future of neuroendovascular intervention research.

Main Methods:

• Literature review of robotic systems in surgery.
• Analysis of clinical applications and ethical considerations.
• Overview of robots in thoracic/abdominal surgery, neurosurgery, and cardiac electrophysiology.

Main Results:

• Robotic assistance offers potential for remote neurovascular interventions and tele-stroke care.
• Advances in medical robotics have been incremental but significant, despite limitations.
• Current research focuses on neuroendovascular intervention with future directions outlined.

Conclusions:

• Robotic-assisted surgery and telemedicine integration are crucial for advancing neurovascular care.
• Tele-stroke models enabled by robotics can improve access for remote and underserved populations.
• Continued research and development in neuroendovascular robotics are essential for future healthcare delivery.