Endovascular robotics: technical advances and future directions

• Published in: Minimally invasive therapy and allied technologies Vol. 34; no. 3; p. 239
• Main Authors: Pescio, Matteo, Kundrat, Dennis, Dagnino, Giulio
• Format: Journal Article
• Language: English
• Published: England 04.05.2025
• Subjects: Cardiovascular Diseases - surgery; Endovascular Procedures - instrumentation; Endovascular Procedures - methods; Endovascular Procedures - trends; Humans; Imaging, Three-Dimensional; Magnetic Resonance Imaging - methods; Robotic Surgical Procedures - instrumentation; Robotic Surgical Procedures - methods; Robotic Surgical Procedures - trends; Robotics - methods; robot autonomy; human-robot interfaces; computer-assisted surgery; Endovascular robotics; MR-guided interventions
• ISSN: 1365-2931
• DOI: 10.1080/13645706.2025.2454237

Endovascular interventions excel in treating cardiovascular diseases in a minimally invasive manner, showing improved outcomes over open techniques. However, challenges related to precise navigation - still relying on 2D fluoroscopy - persist. This review examines the role of robotics, highlighting commercial and research platforms, while exploring emerging trends like MRI compatibility, enhanced navigation, and autonomy. MRI-compatible systems offer radiation-free 3D imaging. Human-robot interaction evolves with task-specific interfaces, while autonomy ranges from partial to full, aiding clinical operators. Challenges include complexity and cost, emphasizing compatibility and navigation advancements. Integrating MRI-compatible robots, refining human-robot interaction, and enhancing autonomy promise advancements in endovascular surgery, fueled by AI and innovative imaging.