Healthcare robots are changing the way surgery is performed, simplifying the delivery and disinfection of items and freeing healthcare providers to focus on handling and caring for patients. Intel offers a diverse portfolio of technologies for the development of medical robots, including surgical assistance, and modular and autonomous mobile robots. Simplified workflows and reduced risk through medical robotics provide value in many industries. For example, a robot could automatically clean and prepare a ward, limiting personal contact in an epidemic ward. Robots with drug identification software reduce the time required to identify, identify and dispense drugs in hospitals.

As technology advances, robots operate autonomously and perform certain tasks completely independently. As a result, doctors, nurses, and other healthcare workers can spend more time providing care directly to patients.

The benefits of robots in healthcare

The use of robotics in healthcare ensures high standards of patient care, efficient processes in clinical environments, and a safe environment for patients and healthcare workers.

High-quality patient care

Medical robots support minimally invasive procedures, frequent personalized monitoring for patients with chronic diseases, intelligent treatment and, social engagement of elderly patients. Additionally, as robots reduce their workload, nurses and other caregivers can provide their patients with greater empathy and human relationships, which can contribute to long-term well-being.

Simplified clinical workflow

Autonomous mobile robots (AMRs) simplify daily tasks, reduce the physical burden on workers and ensure process stability. These robots can track inventory, place orders at the right time, and ensure that supplies, equipment, and medicine are in stock where they are needed, helping to address labor shortages and problems. Cleaning and disinfection AMRs enable rapid disinfection of hospital rooms and preparation for arriving patients, allowing employees to focus on patient-centered, value-based work.

Safe working environment

To protect healthcare workers, AMRs are used to transport supplies and bedding to hospitals where exposure to pathogens is a risk. Cleaning and disinfection robots help limit exposure to pathogens and reduce hospital-acquired infections (HAIs) and are already in use by hundreds of healthcare facilities1. Social robots such as AMR could also help reduce the physical burden on healthcare workers by lifting heavy loads such as beds or moving patients.

Surgical assistant robot

As motion control technology advances, surgical assistant robots have become more precise. These robots help surgeons achieve new levels of speed and precision while performing complex surgeries with AI and computer vision-friendly technology. Some surgical robots can even perform tasks autonomously, allowing surgeons to oversee the procedure from a console.

Robotics also plays an important role in the training of surgeons. The simulation platform uses artificial intelligence and virtual reality to train surgical robots. In a virtual environment, surgeons can perform procedures and hone their skills under the control of the robot.

Modular robot

Modular robots can be configured to augment other systems and perform multiple functions. In the medical field, this includes therapeutic exoskeleton robots and robotic arms and legs. Therapeutic robots help with rehabilitation after injuries caused by stroke, paralysis, brain injury, or multiple sclerosis. The wheelchair-mounted robotic arm currently being developed by Intel and Accenture is designed to help people with spinal cord injuries perform routine tasks. When the robot is equipped with AI and a depth camera, it can follow the patient's shape while performing prescribed movements, measure a range of motion from different positions, and track progress more accurately than the human eye. They can also connect with patients to provide guidance and encouragement.

Autonomous mobile robot

Healthcare organizations often rely on AMR for their ability to support critical needs such as disinfection, communications, and the delivery of drugs and medical supplies. This creates a safer environment and allows staff to spend more time with patients. AMR with Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR), visual computing power, or mapping capabilities enable remote patient communication through autonomous patient navigation in a laboratory or hospital room. If telemedicine or other staff member is monitoring the AMR, they can guide the physician through a tour of the hospital, allowing the specialist to provide on-screen advice on diagnosing and treating the patient.

Robotics and the future of healthcare

Medical robots will continue to advance with advances in machine learning, data analysis, computer vision, and other technologies. Robots of all types will continue to evolve to perform tasks autonomously, efficiently, and, accurately,

Intel works with technology providers and researchers to explore next-generation robotics solutions. For example, Intel Labs China is collaborating with the Suzhou Collaborative Innovation Medical Robot Research Institute to create a medical robotics incubator for startups. Intel provides technology and research support and helps discover new applications for AI and IoT technologies in medical robotics. These contributions support continuous innovation that increases automation, improves efficiency, and solves the biggest challenges in healthcare.