Cutting-Edge Cosmos: Advancements in Surgical Robotics for Space Missions

By Joel ScanlonReviewed by Susha Cheriyedath, M.Sc.Jul 5 2023

Space exploration has entered a new era with missions planned for the Moon and Mars. However, the complexity of these missions raises concerns about crew health and the ability to provide surgical care in space. An article published in the journal Life explores the challenges of performing surgery in space and the advancements being made to address them.

Challenges of space missions

Missions to distant destinations like the Moon and Mars present unique hazards impacting crew health and well-being. Reduced gravity poses challenges for surgical procedures, as the absence of regular gravitational forces affects blood flow, tissue manipulation, and wound healing. Exposure to ionizing radiation during space travel also raises concerns about the potential effects on the human body, particularly during surgical interventions. Furthermore, the presence of meteoroids, extreme temperatures, and the risk of hypobaric decompression sickness further complicate the medical landscape in space. As the distance from Earth increases, communication, resupply, and medical support become increasingly challenging.

Autonomous healthcare for crew

Ensuring crew health and performance is crucial for the success of space missions. In the context of medical care, the level of crew autonomy needs to be exceptionally high. While astronauts receive extensive medical training, it is impractical to expect them to possess the same level of expertise as specialized medical professionals on Earth. As a result, efforts are underway to develop miniaturized medical devices that enable minimally invasive surgeries in space.

For example, natural orifice transluminal endoscopic surgery (NOTES) is being explored as a potential surgical intervention technique that minimizes trauma and enhances recovery. Additionally, robotic surgery simulations are scheduled to be conducted on the International Space Station to refine surgical techniques further. However, the development of fully autonomous surgical robots capable of independently performing complex procedures is still in its early stages.

Parabolic flight experiments and surgical advancements

The possibility of performing surgery in space has been investigated since the early days of space exploration. Parabolic flight experiments involving animals provided valuable insights into surgical procedures in microgravity environments. These experiments focused on various surgical interventions, including thoracotomies, laparotomies, and exposure of lower-extremity muscle. Restraint devices and specialized surgical instruments were designed to ensure the safety of both operators and animals. The results demonstrated that surgical procedures requiring advanced technical skills are feasible in space. However, more research is needed to understand the unique aspects of wound healing and the physiological effects of adverse occurrences in the space environment.

Future scope and considerations

As space missions venture farther from Earth, the need for increased autonomy in surgical procedures becomes critical. Minimally invasive and robotic-assisted surgeries offer significant potential in this regard. Minimally invasive techniques reduce the invasiveness of surgical interventions, minimizing trauma and accelerating recovery. Robotic-assisted surgeries provide enhanced dexterity and precision, compensating for the challenges posed by reduced gravity.

Additionally, the application of artificial intelligence (AI) and 3D printing in surgical robotics shows promise for addressing complex surgical needs in space. AI algorithms can assist surgeons in decision-making and adapt to the unique conditions of space, while 3D printing technology enables the on-demand production of surgical instruments and implants. However, ethical and legislative considerations must be taken into account when developing surgical robots for space missions, including concerns related to patient safety, liability, and the appropriate level of human oversight. While significant progress has been made, developing an intelligent surgical robot capable of full autonomy remains a long-term goal.

Advancements in surgical robotics and haptic sensors

One area of research that holds significant promise for surgical procedures in space is the development of surgical robots capable of autonomous actions. These robots would be vital for performing complex surgeries in remote and extreme environments where human access to surgical care is limited or impossible. Haptic technology, which provides tactile feedback to surgeons during robotic procedures, plays a crucial role in enhancing surgical precision and reducing the risk of errors.

While visual capabilities in robotic surgery have advanced significantly, the lack of tactile feedback in current teleoperated systems increases the risk of tissue damage or suture breakage. Haptic sensors aim to bridge this gap by enabling surgeons to receive information about the force required for operations, enhancing their sense of presence at the remote surgical site. By incorporating haptic devices, surgical robots can improve precision, optimize tissue manipulation, and reduce the risk of errors.

Implications for space missions

As space exploration ventures beyond low Earth orbit, medical capabilities become increasingly crucial. Crew medical officers (CMOs) are responsible for the health and well-being of astronauts, and their selection and training criteria have evolved over the years. In long-duration missions, such as those to Mars, CMOs must possess comprehensive surgical capabilities to address potential medical emergencies, as a rapid return to Earth for treatment is impossible. Virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) simulators have proven effective in maintaining surgical skills for CMOs, medical assistants, and crew members, offering a means to practice complex procedures in a virtual environment and sustain proficiency in surgical techniques.

Conclusion

The future of space missions to the Moon and Mars brings new challenges for medical care, particularly in surgery. Advancements in technology and medical devices are being made to ensure crew autonomy and address unforeseen health problems in space. The development of autonomous surgical robots, integration of haptic sensors, and the application of minimally invasive techniques, AI, and 3D printing offer exciting possibilities for future healthcare in space. By overcoming these challenges, we can pave the way for safe and successful space exploration beyond the Earth's atmosphere.