A novel remote robotic surgical system has successfully removed a blood clot from a brain cadaver, marking a significant advancement that could revolutionize stroke treatment globally.
The pioneering procedure, conducted last October, involved surgeons in Scotland and the United States collaborating across vast distances. This is believed to be the world’s first instance of such a remote robotic thrombectomy.
Neurosurgeon Dr. Ricardo Hanel, based in Jacksonville, Florida, successfully controlled a robotic system more than 6,400 kilometers (approximately 3,977 miles) away in Dundee, Scotland. The robot performed the delicate task on a donated cadaver.
Dr. Hanel described the feat as “amazing,” noting a mere 120-millisecond signal delay, comparable to a blink of an eye.
Earlier, Professor Iris Grunwald from the University of Dundee conducted a preliminary test, controlling the robot from a separate room within the same hospital. This ensured the system’s functionality before the transatlantic operation.
The technology aims to overcome two critical challenges in stroke care: a global shortage of specialized surgeons capable of performing thrombectomies and geographical barriers that delay treatment for patients in remote areas.
Professor Grunwald emphasized the time-sensitive nature of stroke treatment, stating that effectiveness decreases by 1% for every six minutes of delay. She noted that this technology could eliminate location as an obstacle, preserving crucial brain tissue.
Data from Scotland illustrates the disparity in care access. Last year, 9,625 people experienced ischemic strokes, but only 212 (2.2%) underwent thrombectomy. Another 1,045 received clot-dissolving medications.
The remote surgical platform is developed by Sentante, a Lithuanian company. It allows a local hospital to attach instruments to a robot arm. A specialist, located anywhere, can then log in and precisely control the robot’s movements to perform the procedure.
Nvidia and Ericsson are providing support to ensure fast and stable network connectivity for the system.
Juliet Bouverie, CEO of the Stroke Association, hailed the development as “amazing innovation” that promises to reduce healthcare inequalities across the United Kingdom.
The next phase involves clinical trials on living patients. Researchers aim to begin these human trials by 2026, building on previous work with simulations and animal models.