Endovascular robotics: technical advances and future directions

Area of Science:

• Medical Robotics
• Cardiovascular Surgery
• Medical Imaging

Background:

• Endovascular interventions offer minimally invasive treatment for cardiovascular diseases with better outcomes than open surgery.
• Current endovascular navigation relies on 2D fluoroscopy, posing challenges for precise instrument placement.
• Robotic assistance is emerging to overcome these navigation limitations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To review the current role and future potential of robotics in endovascular interventions.
• To explore advancements in robotic navigation, imaging, and autonomy.
• To identify challenges and opportunities in integrating robotic systems into clinical practice.

Main Methods:

• Review of commercial and research-based robotic platforms for endovascular surgery.
• Analysis of emerging trends including MRI compatibility, enhanced navigation techniques, and varying levels of autonomy.
• Discussion of human-robot interaction and integration challenges.

Main Results:

• Robotic platforms offer improved precision and control in endovascular procedures.
• MRI-compatible robotic systems provide radiation-free 3D imaging, enhancing visualization.
• Advancements in human-robot interfaces and autonomous control are improving clinical workflow.

Conclusions:

• Robotics holds significant promise for advancing endovascular surgery.
• Integrating MRI-compatible robots, refining human-robot interaction, and increasing autonomy are key future directions.
• AI and innovative imaging will further drive progress in robotic endovascular interventions.