Recent advances on application of continuum robots in minimally invasive surgery

Continuum robots have emerged as pivotal tools in advancing minimally invasive surgery (MIS), offering enhanced flexibility and precision compared to traditional rigid instruments. This review categorizes continuum robots based on structural designs and actuation strategies, highlighting their ability to navigate complex surgical environments with minimal invasiveness. The integration of advanced sensing technologies for shape and environmental perception is examined, underscoring their role in improving surgical accuracy and patient safety. Specific applications in bronchoscopy, gastrointestinal endoscopy, and orthopedic procedures demonstrate the diverse capabilities of continuum robots in clinical settings. Despite challenges in material stiffness and sensor miniaturization, continuum robots show promising potential to reshape the landscape of MIS through continued innovation and research advancements.