In a remarkable step forward in the field of endoscopic surgery, researchers at the German Cancer Research Center (DKFZ) have showcased the potential of miniature robots. Transforming the capabilities of such robots, often limited by their lack of strength to transport necessary instruments for endoscopic microsurgery within the body, scientists have devised a robotic convoy, referred to as TrainBots. Connected together yet working on millimeter scales, these robots are equipped with improved 'feet' that give them the needed traction for their intensive tasks.
The DKFZ team achieved a significant breakthrough by successfully performing an experimental electric surgical procedure on a bile duct obstruction using the said robotic convoy. In an era that boasts a vast array of potential applications for miniature robots in medicine, ranging from precise drug delivery to different sensing tasks and surgical procedures, this development stands prominent.
Despite the impressive advancements in surgical robotics, the technology often faces roadblocks in certain tasks, notably in endoscopic microsurgery. Often, the required instruments outweigh what the tiny robots can transport, and movement through crawling on mucous-covered surfaces can be problematic due to the lack of traction. DKFZ's Tian Qiu-led team, however, have devised an innovative solution to tackle these problems effectively.
TrainBot, a series of interconnected miniature robots, when combined, can not only carry an endoscopic instrument but can maneuver it effectively using improved anti-slip feet. The wireless TrainBot is controlled by a rotating magnetic field that enables plane movement and rotation control. Specifically designed for human-scale distances, the external system for actuation and control makes the concept of a robotic convoy feasible.
The utilization of the TrainBot convoy is nearly limitless, as observed from the successful endeavor of the DKFZ researchers in simulating a surgical procedure. The team demonstrated the potential of the TrainBot convoy by using it to perform an electric surgical procedure, known as "electrocauterization," on a bile duct obstruction. One of the crucial aspects of this maneuver is the navigation of the endoscopic instrument around a sharp angle from the small intestine into the bile duct. The flexible robot convoy shows its prowess in the execution of such tasks.
Looking towards the future, Tian Qiu, the project leader, expresses optimism about the possibilities of developing more teams of miniature robots for different tasks in endoscopic surgery. As demonstrated in the organ model, the TrainBot convoy can bring a catheter for fluidic drainage or drug delivery and similar tasks after the initial procedure.
What began as an exploration of opportunities with miniature robots in the healthcare sector has now expanded into a revolutionary concept opening doors to more advanced, precise, and safer procedures in medicine. The promising results from the experiments have generated renewed interest and optimism about the future of robotic surgery.
Disclaimer: The above article was written with the assistance of AI. The original sources can be found on ScienceDaily.
