Researchers at the University of California San Diego used a humanoid robot to perform two laparoscopic gallbladder removals on live pigs [1].

This pre-clinical trial marks the first time robots designed to look like humans have performed such surgeries on live animals. The development suggests a potential shift in how hospitals may utilize humanoid robotics for complex medical procedures in the future [1, 2].

The robot, named "Surgie," is a teleoperated system [4]. This means surgeons control the machine's movements remotely rather than the robot acting autonomously. The team utilized the humanoid form to demonstrate that robots with human-like proportions and dexterity can navigate the constraints of an operating room [2, 3].

The procedures performed were cholecystectomies, which involve the surgical removal of the gallbladder [1]. The results of the study were published in the journal Nature on July 8, 2024 [3].

While some reports initially described the subjects as patients, the research was conducted in pre-clinical trials using pigs [3]. The use of animal models allows surgeons to test the precision and safety of the humanoid interface before moving toward human trials [1, 3].

The project aims to explore whether humanoid robots can integrate more seamlessly into existing surgical workflows than traditional robotic arms. By mimicking human form, these robots may eventually occupy the same physical space, and use the same tools, as human surgeons [1, 2].

“The robot, named "Surgie," is a teleoperated system.”

The successful use of 'Surgie' indicates a move toward 'human-centric' robotics in medicine. Unlike traditional surgical robots that consist of stationary bases with articulating arms, humanoid robots could potentially move around a ward or operate in environments designed for people. This trial validates the mechanical feasibility of the humanoid form for high-precision tasks, though the reliance on teleoperation means the human surgeon remains the primary decision-maker.