Jakarta, INTI - Researchers in China have developed a surgical robot capable of outperforming human doctors in brain imaging procedures. The technology is claimed to accelerate the process by nearly 30% compared to conventional manual methods.
According to a report by the South China Morning Post (SCMP), the system is the world’s first approved cerebrovascular interventional robot. In a live trial conducted at Peking Union Medical College Hospital (PUMCH), a physician using the robot was able to reduce the procedure time by up to nine minutes compared to traditional techniques.
The robot, named YDHB-NS01, is designed to assist in cerebral angiography, a critical procedure used to examine blood vessels in the brain for diagnosing various neurological conditions. Lead researcher Dr. Zhao Yuanli stated that the system has shown promising early results.
“Initial clinical applications demonstrate that this robotic system is feasible for diagnostic cerebral angiography, with early indications of safety and performance comparable to conventional manual methods,” he explained.
Challenges of Manual Procedures and Robotic Advantages
In a study published in the Chinese Neurosurgical Journal, Yuanli and his team highlighted the challenges of performing brain procedures manually. Cerebral vascular imaging is highly complex, requiring doctors to guide a thin wire from the patient’s thigh up to the brain’s blood vessels under X-ray guidance.
Manual procedures come with several limitations, including natural hand tremors and the physical strain of wearing heavy radiation protection gear. Surgeons must use lead shielding, which increases fatigue and long-term health risks due to radiation exposure.
With robotic assistance, many of these challenges can be minimized. The system not only improves precision but also has the potential to reduce radiation exposure for medical personnel. This development marks a significant milestone in robotic-assisted surgery, paving the way for greater automation and efficiency in complex medical procedures.
If further developed, technologies like this could not only speed up procedures but also enhance safety for both doctors and patients.
Conclusion
The development of the YDHB-NS01 robot highlights the growing role of robotics in healthcare, demonstrating how advanced technology can enhance precision, reduce risks, and significantly improve efficiency in critical medical procedures such as brain imaging.
Read more: Humanoid Robot Factory in China Can Produce 10,000 Units Per Year, Each Unit Can be Produced in 30 Minutes