Future Directions of Robotics in Neurosurgery

Abstract

Technological advances have enabled humans to counter many challenges, including health complications. Surgery remains a major concern because several uncertainties are associated with it; there are too many variable factors that often cannot be controlled. The limitations of a surgeon are physical and physiological and cannot be overcome by human effort. However, aids from sophisticated mechanical systems such as computers and robots allow us to surmount such barriers effectively. The applications of robotics in medicine and healthcare with special emphasis on diagnostic and surgical protocols have improved our efficiency many times. Improved accuracy and precision in complicated processes, better real-time image processing, and specific and fine control of situations, are some of the direct benefits of the application of robots in serious medical events. The use of robotic assistance is growing in almost all medical fields. Successful applications of robotics to cranial, spinal, and peripheral neurological surgery have raised hope. However, there are several limitations to human-robot interactions: image processing systems, automation, mechanical damage, and ethical considerations. These limitations could be overcome with advanced technology integration such as the Internet of Robotic Things (IoRT), the 5G network, novel prototypes, and complex parallel robotic systems. The present article considers various recent developments of robotics and their application with special reference to the neurological context, along with a discussion of possible future developments.