Miniature robot surgeons prepare for cataract surgery

Cambridge Consultants have shown that the procedure to perform cataract surgery could soon be carried out robotically. Helen Knight reports

Cataract surgery is the most commonly performed procedure in the world, restoring sight to 20 million people each year.

But the procedure is currently performed by hand, using a pair of surgical tweezers and a microscope. This can result in complications, as the delicate nature of the surface of the eye means it can be easily damaged.

Now engineers at product design firm Cambridge Consultants have shown that the procedure could soon be carried out robotically, thanks to the development of one of the smallest known surgical robots.

Axsis, developed by the company’s engineers to demonstrate the technology’s potential, has a body the size of a soft drinks can, and can manipulate surgical instruments of 1.8mm in diameter.

As well as performing cataract and other forms of eye surgery, the robot could also be used for other minimally invasive procedures, such as implanting neurostimulation devices, early cancer intervention, and oesophageal and gastrointestinal tract operations.