Robotics in Cranial Neurosurgery, 35 Years of Evolution

Abstract

We reviewed the experience of robotic devices in cranial neurosurgery for 35 years. The brief history is represented, prerequisites for robotics development are specified. The most popular devices are listed, which are used for surgical instruments positioning and remote manipulations. We pointed key robotic features, main results of their application, showed advantages, shortcomings and ways to resolve some problems. The accurateness of robotic systems is shown in comparison with frame-based stereotactic surgery. The main trends in robotic development in the future are described as well.

Keywords

• robotic device
• cranial neurosurgery
• neuromate
• rosa
• renaissance
• neuroarm