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This paper investigates the transformative impact of soft robotics on surgical operations, particularly in the development of next-generation minimally invasive techniques. Conventional surgical procedures are often influenced by various factors, such as patient positioning, the precision of surgical instruments, the surgeon’s experience, and physical conditions. These factors can make it challenging to accurately execute predetermined surgical plans, which can inevitably reduce surgical precision and safety. To address these challenges, soft robotic systems that mimic the flexibility and adaptability of biological tissues provide significant advantages over conventional rigid tools. These advantages include enhanced dexterity, reduced tissue trauma, and improved patient outcomes. Soft robots are made from compliant materials (e.g., silicone, hydrogels), which make them gentler on delicate tissues and organs. They can navigate tight or sensitive areas (e.g., the brain, heart, abdomen), allow for smaller incisions, minimize blood loss, reduce the risk of infection, and minimize recovery time, scarring, and human error caused by tremors or physical strain. This review examines recent advancements in soft robotics, clinical applications, addresses technological challenges, and identifies future directions for integrating soft robotics into mainstream surgical practice.
Omiyale et al. (Tue,) studied this question.