STAR: Autonomous Surgeon Robot Excels in Laparoscopic Surgery

In a groundbreaking development, the autonomous surgeon robot STAR, developed at Johns Hopkins University, has successfully conducted laparoscopic surgery on the intestines of a pig, outperforming human capabilities.

Soft tissue surgeries pose significant challenges for robots due to their unpredictable nature, requiring swift adaptation to unforeseen obstacles. The success of STAR marks a significant stride towards fully automated surgeries for humans in the future.

Equipped with a real-time control system, STAR can dynamically adjust the surgical plan, mimicking the capabilities of a human surgeon. Researchers highlight STAR's exceptional performance, surpassing human counterparts in rejoining the two ends of the intestine across four successful procedures.

Performing laparoscopic surgery, particularly intestinal anastomosis, demands intricate skills including complex visualization, tissue tracking, surgical planning, and precise execution in unstructured environments. STAR's achievement underscores its ability to navigate these challenges with remarkable accuracy and adaptability.

The surgeon robot integrates advanced imaging systems, specialized surgical instruments for suturing, and a patient monitoring system for immediate adjustments during surgery. This breakthrough heralds a new era in surgical robotics, promising enhanced precision and efficiency in complex soft tissue procedures.