In a groundbreaking experiment, surgeons in Switzerland successfully performed an endoscopic procedure on a pig 5,780 miles away in Hong Kong.
This innovative feat was accomplished using a video game controller, paving the way for the future of remote human surgeries, especially in areas where local medical expertise is lacking.
Technology after remote surgery
The procedure used a robotic system and a magnetic endoscope, connected via a direct WebSocket protocol for real-time data transfer.
The Swiss surgeon operated from a control console in Zurich, watching the procedure via live video and directing the endoscope using a PlayStation 3 Move controller.
Other demonstrations appear to have the scientists using a PlayStation 5 controller, which would be much easier to achieve these days.
This technology allows for precise navigation within the body, as the magnetic endoscope can be steered by controlling an external magnetic field, enabling complex maneuvers such as bending into a U-turn and performing biopsies.
Delay and real-time control
One of the main achievements of this experiment was to maintain a latency below 300 milliseconds, which is essential for real-time surgical control.
This level of responsiveness is comparable to traditional surgical settings, allowing the remote surgeon to react rapidly to any developments during the procedure.
Implications for health care
The success of this remote surgery highlights the potential for telesurgery to expand surgical care in remote areas where local expertise is not available.
This is especially important for time-sensitive procedures and specialized surgeries. The technology could even be adapted for use in space, providing surgical solutions for astronauts far from Earth.
Challenges and considerations
Despite the promising results, there are challenges to overcome. Establishing a reliable, high-speed Internet connection is critical, as is ensuring effective communication between the remote surgeon and local staff.
Furthermore, the safety and accuracy of robotic systems should be prioritized to avoid complications during procedures.
Kurt’s main relationships
The advancement of robotic magnetic navigation technology represents a groundbreaking advance in the field of telesurgery.
By overcoming geographic barriers, this technology not only increases access to surgical expertise, but also holds the promise of transforming the landscape of minimally invasive procedures.
As research continues and more successful trials are conducted, the reality of remote surgeries becoming a routine part of medical practice may soon become a reality, benefiting countless patients around the world.
Would you feel comfortable undergoing a surgical procedure performed remotely by a surgeon thousands of miles away? Let us know by writing to us at Cyberguy.com/Contact.
For more of my tech tips and security alerts, subscribe to my free CyberGuy Report newsletter by going to Cyberguy.com/Newsletter.
#Surgeons #PlayStation #controller #longdistance #endoscopy #groundbreaking #experiment
Image Source : nypost.com