Use of Robots in Surgery: Development of a Frame for Prostatectomy

The potential contribution of robots in surgery is considerable, as they are capable of precise placement of their end effector in space with an accuracy that is impossible for a surgeon. One of the main reasons for the limited use of robots in surgery relates to safety issues. However, if a special-purpose robot were constructed, it could be made physically safe, as it would be possible to introduce mechanical stops to limit the range of movement of the robot to a safe area. This article describes the use of a special safety frame, the first stage in the development of a purpose-built robot for prostatectomy, in 30 patients awaiting elective prostatectomy for urodynamically proved prostatic outflow obstruction.