In the future, they will do remote operations
Last reviewed: 23.04.2024
All iLive content is medically reviewed or fact checked to ensure as much factual accuracy as possible.
We have strict sourcing guidelines and only link to reputable media sites, academic research institutions and, whenever possible, medically peer reviewed studies. Note that the numbers in parentheses ([1], [2], etc.) are clickable links to these studies.
If you feel that any of our content is inaccurate, out-of-date, or otherwise questionable, please select it and press Ctrl + Enter.
Experts said that in the near future they will be able to develop equipment that will allow surgeons to conduct remote operations, being at a great distance from the patient. This was reported by doctors from the center of Nicholson at the hospital in Florida, and the US government has already allocated them $ 5 million to conduct all the necessary experiments.
By the way, the devices that allow surgeons to work at a distance from the patient have been around for a long time, but researchers from Florida intend to improve existing technologies. Particular attention will be paid to the safety of surgical centers, which will be responsible for conducting remote operations.
It is worth noting that such operations have already been carried out before, but almost always the patient and the surgeon were practically next to each other, in addition, the equipment that was used for the operation and the remote control were connected by wires. Now a team of specialists from the center of Nicholson are trying to improve the apparatus in such a way as to simplify the work of surgeons as much as possible, and to increase the possibilities for conducting future operations.
The first operation in the world, which took place without the presence of a surgeon in the operating room, was conducted 10 years ago. Then the surgeon was 6 thousand kilometers from the patient, in the US, while the patient was in Italy. Such a unique operation became possible thanks to information and satellite technologies, as well as unique equipment.
The first operation in the world at this distance was successful, and it was conducted by Professor Carlo Pappone. The patient was a young man suffering from atrial fibrillation, during the operation through special catheters a small probe was inserted into the patient's body, which was controlled by means of radio-frequency signals. In the heart of the patient, the probe destroyed tiny pieces of tissue that interfered with the normal functioning of the heart. To secure in the operating room with the patient were doctors of the Italian clinic, who at any time could intervene in the course of the operation.
Now most specialists already work remotely - they successfully advise and prescribe treatment to their patients, many say that this approach has its advantages and gives a positive result.
New opportunities in surgery will allow qualified medical professionals to help a person located anywhere in the world. Now it seems fantastic, in addition, similar technologies have certain risks, but experts are working on it. It is planned to use the Internet for data transmission, but there is a problem of signal delay, which can significantly affect the course of the operation. Specialists noted that the introduction of technology for widespread use will be possible after the maximum signal delay will not exceed 200 milliseconds, and this can be compared with the moment.
Remote surgery is the most interesting for the military, since in hot spots with severe injuries the soldiers will have the opportunity to receive the necessary surgical care in a timely manner. Perhaps, it was the complexity of conducting operations in mobile hospitals and prompted scientists to think about remote surgery.
[1]