Mechatronic Support Systems and Robots

Human dexterity is limited. Even by a most intensive training, physiologic tremor cannot be completely eliminated. Human beings suffer from fatigue and limited endurance. Mechatronic support systems have the potential to compensate for these shortcomings. In surgery, three different classes of machine (“robotic”) support exist up to now: programmable automates, guidance systems, and so-called “master–slave manipulation systems.” In visceral surgery, camera guiding support systems and surgical master–slave units are beginning to play a role. The second- generation camera control units now offer to substitute for the human camera assistant. Mechanically almost perfect, the man–machine interface still needs improvements. The class of surgical manipulators was dominated up to now by the Intuitive Surgical device. Today, at least two competitors have appeared on the market. The true value of surgical manipulators in visceral surgery has still to be assessed.