Humanoid Robots Perform Remote Gallbladder Surgery in Preclinical Trial

Physicians have successfully utilized humanoid robots to perform remote gallbladder surgeries on pigs in a preclinical trial, a development that could expand access to surgical expertise in underserved areas.

During the experiment conducted by researchers at the University of California San Diego, two five-foot-tall humanoid robots, modified from commercially available Unitree G1 models, were teleoperated by surgeons. These robots used standard surgical instruments within an operating room designed for humans, successfully completing two laparoscopic gallbladder removal procedures. In one operation, a robot was guided by a surgeon next to it, while in the second, two robots worked as a team, both remotely controlled.

The trial aimed to prove the concept that a general-purpose humanoid robot could handle surgical tools with enough precision to complete an operation. The robots were able to move tissue, dissect around the gallbladder, and assist in placing clips before removal. Researchers noted that the robots copied the surgeons' movements rather than making independent medical decisions.

This marks the first time teleoperated humanoid robots have completed live gallbladder surgeries. While robotic surgery is not new, this experiment is distinct in its use of general-purpose humanoid machines, which are significantly smaller and more adaptable than traditional, often immobile, robotic surgical systems. For instance, the humanoid robots weigh around 60 pounds and stand about 5 feet tall, in contrast to specialized surgical robots that can weigh approximately 1,800 pounds and may require dedicated operating room retrofits.

Researchers believe that mobile humanoid robots could offer greater flexibility, potentially being moved between operating rooms or transported to smaller facilities. This adaptability could allow specialists to perform procedures in rural clinics, field hospitals, or remote locations where surgical care is difficult to access due to a shortage of surgeons. The technology could also potentially be used in future space missions.

Despite the successful procedures, the technology is still in its early stages. Researchers had to recalibrate the robots multiple times during the surgeries, and the operations took longer than those performed with established systems. Latency, or the delay between a surgeon's command and the robot's response, remains a significant concern, particularly over long distances, as it could impact surgical precision. Future development will focus on improving the robots' reliability, response time, and ensuring safety protocols are in place.

The researchers envision future versions of these robots acting as autonomous surgical assistants, capable of recognizing needed tools or completing limited tasks under supervision. However, the immediate focus remains on teleoperation, with a surgeon always in control. The goal is not to replace human surgeons but to extend their reach and capabilities, especially in situations with limited staffing. This approach could provide trauma teams on battlefields or patients in remote towns with access to specialized surgical skills without the need for physical travel.

While the prospect of humanoid robots in surgery may raise concerns, the researchers emphasize that human judgment remains paramount. Patients considering robot-assisted procedures are advised to understand who controls the machine, what backup plans are in place if a connection fails, and whether a qualified surgical team will be present. The technology is currently preclinical, having been tested on pigs, and is not yet ready for human trials.