New Method for Surgical Diagnostics - a Robotic Telemedical Approach

Area of Science:

• Robotics and Biomedical Engineering
• Surgical Technology
• Telemedicine

Background:

• Telemedicine demand surged during COVID-19, highlighting its benefits for rural access and specialist care.
• Current telediagnostics often lack physical examination capabilities, limiting their scope.
• Robotics are established in telesurgery, offering potential for advanced remote diagnostics.

Purpose of the Study:

• To develop and evaluate a novel telediagnostic system for comprehensive perioperative and emergency examinations in surgery.
• To leverage robotic platforms for precise remote physical examinations, including auscultation, percussion, and palpation.
• To demonstrate the integration of an ultrasound probe for emergency ultrasound examinations within the telediagnostic system.

Main Methods:

• A robotic platform with a remote lead robotic arm and a patient-side follower robot was developed.
• Force-feedback and mirrored movement enabled precise remote physical interactions.
• The system integrated vital parameter monitoring and capabilities for ear/nasopharyngeal inspections and automated swabbing.
• An ultrasound probe was modularly added to assess emergency ultrasound examination potential.

Main Results:

• The telediagnostic system facilitated accurate remote physical examinations (auscultation, percussion, palpation) without extensive training.
• Integration of an ultrasound probe allowed for high-quality emergency ultrasound examinations.
• The system demonstrated potential for remote screening of contagious diseases prior to hospital admission.

Conclusions:

• The developed telediagnostic system offers a promising approach for advanced remote surgical diagnostics and perioperative care.
• While cost and readiness for widespread hospital use are current limitations, the technology paves the way for future surgical telediagnostics.
• This robotic system enhances the capabilities of telemedicine in surgery, improving access and precision in remote examinations.