Surgie Robots Complete First-Ever Live Animal Surgeries In Robotics Milestone

Two humanoid robots have successfully performed gallbladder removal surgeries on live pigs in a first-of-its-kind experiment that could influence the future of robotic-assisted healthcare. The research, led by engineers and surgeons from the University of California San Diego, demonstrated that humanoid robots can carry out complex surgical tasks with human guidance and may eventually support medical procedures in environments where specialist doctors are not physically present.

The study, detailed on July 8 in the journal Nature, involved two humanoid robots nicknamed “Surgie.” The robots successfully completed laparoscopic cholecystectomies, a procedure involving the removal of the gallbladder. During the operations, the machines performed tasks including retracting tissue, dissecting structures, placing clips and removing the gallbladder from the liver area.

Researchers conducted two separate procedures to test the capabilities of the humanoid systems. In one operation, a humanoid robot performed the surgery with assistance from a human surgeon, while in another, two humanoid robots worked together to complete the procedure. The experiment was designed as a proof of concept to examine whether humanoid robots could expand access to advanced medical care beyond traditional operating room settings.

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The research team used commercially available Unitree G1 humanoid robots rather than machines specifically built for surgery. The robots, which stand around four to five feet tall and cost less than $20,000, were modified with physical adapters that allowed them to hold surgical instruments. Scientists also developed software that translated human hand movements into precise robotic control of surgical tools attached to the robots’ wrists.

Doctors and researchers said the experiment showed the potential of humanoid robots in surgical assistance, but several challenges remain before such systems can be used in hospitals. Safety, precision, reliability and regulatory approval will need to be addressed before clinical deployment. The team noted that human expertise and supervision remain essential at the current stage of development.

The researchers believe that future versions of humanoid surgical robots could help extend healthcare services to remote locations and areas facing shortages of medical specialists. While “Surgie” represents an important step in robotic medicine, experts said further testing and improvements will be required before humanoid robots become part of routine patient care.

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