Robot-Assisted Mechanical Thrombectomy for Neurointerventional Surgery: An Exploratory Scoping Review

Robot-assisted endovascular technologies have emerged as a promising innovation in neurointerventional surgery, particularly for mechanical thrombectomy in acute ischemic stroke. This scoping review aims to map and synthesize the current evidence on robot-assisted mechanical thrombectomy, focusing on technical feasibility, preliminary performance outcomes, and existing limitations.A scoping review was conducted following the Joanna Briggs Institute methodology and reported according to PRISMA-ScR guidelines. Searches were performed in PubMed, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science without date or language restrictions. Studies evaluating robotic assistance in mechanical thrombectomy across preclinical and clinical settings were included.Fourteen studies met the inclusion criteria, including 13 preclinical studies and only 1 clinical study. Robotic systems demonstrated promising technical success and recanalization rates reported in controlled settings, although direct comparisons with conventional manual techniques remain limited. Additional benefits included reduced procedure times, improved navigation precision, decreased operator fatigue, and significant reductions in radiation exposure. However, most evidence remains experimental, with limited clinical validation.Robot-assisted mechanical thrombectomy appears technically feasible in preclinical and early clinical settings, with potential advantages for procedural safety and access to stroke care. However, the current evidence remains limited and predominantly preclinical, and robust clinical trials are required before widespread clinical adoption. These findings should therefore be interpreted as hypothesis-generating.