Chinese researchers have developed a robotic system to perform complex brain vascular imaging procedures approximately 30% faster than traditional manual methods, according to a study published earlier this year. This achievement marks a significant milestone for the world's first globally certified robotic system for brain vascular intervention. The study, published in the Chinese Neurosurgical Journal, states that the new robot can complete brain vascular imaging in 9 minutes less than the traditional method, as reported by the South China Morning Post. The lead researcher, Zhao Yunali, stated that initial clinical trials indicate that the YDHB-NS01 surgical robotic system is suitable for brain vascular imaging. Initial indicators have proven its safety and procedural performance, comparable to traditional manual methods. Brain vascular imaging is a fundamental requirement for treating several brain diseases, but it is a difficult process for both the doctor and the patient. With traditional methods, a specialist needs to insert an electrical catheter from the patient's thigh to the blood vessels in the brain during an X-ray procedure. The reliance on a surgical robot offers a major advantage for the health of the medical team involved in brain imaging. Manual surgery imposes difficult constraints on medical teams, as doctors' hands may often tremble during the procedure, which can negatively affect precision. Additionally, the need to wear protective equipment from radiation increases physical strain and poses long-term health risks due to repeated radiation exposure. The robotic system has overcome several technical challenges associated with traditional procedures, demonstrating operational stability without any mechanical failures or system malfunctions, according to the Chinese newspaper. Its operators reported smoothness in catheter and guidewire insertion, along with stable and highly responsive control tools, as well as precise force feedback. In their study, Zhao and his team concluded that with the robot's help, and just two training sessions, the surgeon was able to enhance the safety and reliability of the procedure, reducing the operation time by 29%. The average duration decreased from 38 minutes to 27 minutes. Between May and August of last year, 25 patients underwent brain vascular imaging with the assistance of the robot, while another 25 cases were performed manually by the same surgeon, whose experience in brain vascular imaging did not exceed three years.
