Technology has become an important part of modern surgical practices. Technology is evolving and so is the future of surgery. Due to technological advancement, the future of surgery is becoming safer and more precise, with better patient outcomes. In this blog, we will discuss the role of emerging technology in the future of surgery.
Emerging technologies in surgery
Here we have the list of emerging technologies in surgeries.
- Surgical robots
- Virtual reality
- Augmented reality
- Minimally invasive surgery
- 3D Bioprinting
Surgical robots
The surgeons perform normal surgeries manually. Robotic surgeries, robotic arms with surgical instruments, and high-definition 3D cameras are used to perform the procedures. The surgeons control surgical robots to perform surgical procedures on patients with precision and magnified view. This has less chance of human errors.
Advantages:
- Minimal invasive techniques
- Enhanced precision
- Improved outcomes
- Less recovery time
- Technique to perform complex surgeries.
Examples:
- da Vinci surgical system
- Rosa and Mazor X system
- Mako system
Virtual reality (VR)
Another technology that changes the future of surgery is virtual reality or VR. VR is taking the teaching and learning experience to a whole new level for medical students and even surgeons. VR can mimic the real-life environment, and doctors can practice surgeries before the real surgery. This helps them refine their skills and prepare them for the challenges they might face during the procedures.
VR or virtual reality technology also helps the surgeon to see the patient’s anatomy in 3D. With the help of this, they can clearly understand the complex structures and the abnormalities of the patient.
Advantages:
- Skill development
- Safe practice
- Detailed visualization of patient’s anatomy
- Customize surgical plans.
- Remote collaborations and discussions
- Time efficient
Augmented reality (AR)
Technology in surgery also includes augmented reality or AR. This is different than VR or virtual reality. In VR the environmental setting is completely virtual, and users use headset devices and are controlled by the system. Whereas, in AR or augmented reality the users do not lose control over the real world, and they can access it through smartphones.
Advantages:
- This technology helps in enhanced visualization.
- Highlights the blood vessels or tumors for the surgeons so they can be more precise during surgeries.
- Surgical planning can also be done before time.
- Improved precision and accuracy during procedures
- Helps in the training and education of surgeons and students.
- Enhanced communication and collaboration with other healthcare workers
Examples:
- Medivis
- Augmedics Xvision
- Microsoft HoloLens
Minimally invasive surgery
Advancement in surgery also encompasses minimally invasive surgeries. This means that the surgeries are performed through small incisions. These types of surgeries have minimal risk of complications, less pain, and quicker recovery. The two techniques used are laparoscopes and endoscopes.
Laparoscopes:
This surgical technique is used to perform surgeries in the abdomen or pelvis by small incisions. In this technique, surgeons make small incisions of about 0.5 to 1cm. The inside of the abdomen is shown on the screen with the help of a thin tube, camera, and light. After the procedure, the incision is then either stitched or closed with adhesive strips.
Benefits:
- Minimal incision
- less hospital stays.
- Quick recovery
- Less painful
Endoscopy
It is a medical technique used to see the inside of the body or organ. It consists of a tube, camera, and light. The images from inside are displayed on the screen for the doctors to view.
The process consists of inserting a tube inside the body through an opening such as a mouth, anus, or through a small incision. The real live images are displayed on the screen for the doctors to look for any abnormalities or take biopsies.
Types:
- Colonoscopy
- Gastroscopy
- Bronchoscopy
Benefits:
- Real-time imaging
- Minimal incision or no incision
- Faster recovery
- Early detection of abnormalities
3D bioprinting
This is an advanced medical technology, in which customized implants and tissues are created. This is another innovation in the future of surgery. 3D printing is a modern technology in surgery that helps in replacement of damaged tissues or organs.
Examples:
- Dental implants
- Orthopedic implants
- Skin grafts
Benefits:
- Customization of implants so they can fit and function.
- Reduced risk of rejection
- Quick prototyping
Benefits of innovative technology in the future of surgery
The healthcare environment is becoming more advanced with the innovation of new and improved technologies that have their benefits. This is changing the future of surgery for the patients and the doctors.
- Reduced recovery times for the patients
- Successful procedures with more accuracy and precision with fewer human errors
- Replacement of damaged tissues or organs with less rejection
Challenges of technology in the future of surgery
The advancement of recent technology in healthcare settings and the introduction of technology in surgery has its challenges. Such as:
- The cost and accessibility of modern technologies
- The training and adaptation of innovative technologies for surgeons
- Ethical considerations
Conclusions
The innovations of technology in healthcare are improving the future of surgery. Surgeries are becoming less risky, with more precision and accuracy, and greater patient outcomes. However, the new technology in surgery has its benefits and challenges. Modern surgeries are evolving in the healthcare industry. From surgical robots to 3D bioprinting, surgical advancements are changing the future of surgeries.
