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Published on: October 30, 2013
Robotic platforms in neurosurgery: the great disappearing act
George Hudson1,2, Joachim Starup-Hansen1,2, Tjaša Zaletel1,2
1Victor Horsley Department of Neurosurgery, National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery, London, UK.
British Journal of Neurosurgery
|June 30, 2026
Summary
Neurosurgical robots are evolving from large supervisory systems to integrated handheld devices. This shift enhances precision and adaptability, transforming robots into smart instruments for improved patient outcomes.
Area of Science:
- Neurosurgery
- Robotics
- Medical Technology
Background:
- Robotic platforms in neurosurgery have advanced significantly to meet clinical needs.
- Current robots often function as supervisory-control systems for procedures like biopsies and deep brain stimulation (DBS) lead implantation.
- Emerging needs include tremor control and enhanced dexterity, driving robotic innovation.
Purpose of the Study:
- To review the current landscape of neurosurgical robotics.
- To analyze supervisory-control, teleoperated, and shared-control robotic designs.
- To discuss the future integration of robotic platforms in neurosurgery, particularly handheld systems.
Main Methods:
- Review of existing literature and commercial robotic systems in neurosurgery.
- Analysis of different robotic control paradigms: supervisory-control, teleoperation, and shared-control.
- Examination of the evolution towards integrated, handheld robotic instruments.
Main Results:
- Supervisory-control robots are prevalent for trajectory planning in stereotactic neurosurgery.
- Teleoperated robots face challenges in neurosurgery due to narrow corridors and instrument exchange limitations.
- Handheld, shared-control robots offer seamless integration and improved workflow, embodying the 'disappearing robot' concept.
Conclusions:
- Neurosurgical robotics are transitioning towards integrated, user-friendly 'smart instruments'.
- Handheld shared-control systems represent a significant advancement, enhancing dexterity and workflow.
- Future robotic platforms are expected to become even more embedded within neurosurgical practice.
