In a new paper in Science Robotics, CITRIS researcher Ken Goldberg suggests that an “Augmented Dexterity” approach that pairs experienced surgeons with specialized robotic systems could lead to better patient outcomes.
Augmented Dexterity, enabled by advancements in generative artificial intelligence and other areas, would consist of a human-robot team: The robot would develop and place digital images of planned maneuvers on top of a live image of the surgical field, and the human surgeon would closely oversee and give the final approval for the robot to perform the procedure. Tasks that require dexterity and that carry greater risk to patients with small errors, such as suturing and debridement, could benefit from this new method. The technology may also expand the possibilities of remote surgery assistance.
“Augmented Dexterity has potential to elevate good surgeons to the level of the best surgeons, which could support faster and more reliable surgery,” said Goldberg.
Read more from the UC Berkeley College of Computing, Data Science, and Society.