Technology is revolutionizing the medical field with the making of robotic devices and complex imaging. Robotic surgical systems have become a staple in operating rooms, advancing the field of minimally invasive surgery. These computer-assisted tools help surgeons conduct more-precise in-depth procedures. And robots are often praised for their dexterity, advanced visualization technologies, and mechanical stamina. But even if these developments have made operations much less invasive, robotic systems have their own shortcomings that prevent them from replacing surgeons. There is one important aspect the robots are missing: a sense of touch, also known as haptics.

Then again, robot-assisted surgery is the newest development of endoscopy – the idea being that less invasive procedures translate into less trauma and pain for patients. Surgery through smaller incisions typically results in faster recovery. It’s not that robots are replacing the basics of surgery. Surgeons are still cutting and sewing like they have been for years. Robots just represent a new computer-assisted tool that provides another way for surgeons to work.

Like for example in abdominal endoscopy, surgeons thread the fiber optic instrument into the abdomen. But with robotic surgical systems, surgeons don’t move endoscopic instruments straight with their hands. Surgeons sit at a console several feet from the operating table instead and use joysticks similar to those being used in video games. They do surgical jobs by leading the movement of the robotic arms in a procedure known as tele-manipulation.

Well, it’s too soon to say how far and how fast robotic surgery can go but experts say the future looks promising.