Robotic-Assisted Solutions for Invasive Cardiology, Cardiac Surgery and Routine On-Ward Tasks: A Narrative Review

[Healthcare 4.0-Medicine in transition]

Healthcare 4.0 describes the future transformation of the healthcare sector driven by the combination of digital technologies, such as artificial intelligence (AI), big data and the Internet of Medical Things, enabling the advancement of precision medicine. This overview article addresses various areas such as large language models (LLM), diagnostics and robotics, shedding light on the positive aspects of Healthcare 4.0 and showcasing exciting methods and application examples in cardiology. It delves into the broad knowledge base and enormous potential of LLMs, highlighting their immediate benefits as digital assistants or for administrative tasks. In diagnostics, the increasing usefulness of wearables is emphasized and an AI for predicting heart filling pressures based on cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is introduced. Additionally, it discusses the revolutionary methodology of a digital simulation of the physical heart (digital twin). Finally, it addresses both regulatory frameworks and a brief vision of data-driven healthcare delivery, explaining the need for investments in technical personnel and infrastructure to achieve a more effective medicine.

Evolutionary trends and innovations in cardiovascular intervention

Cardiovascular diseases remain a global health challenge, prompting continuous innovation in medical technology, particularly in Cardiovascular MedTech. This article provides a comprehensive exploration of the transformative landscape of Cardiovascular MedTech in the 21st century, focusing on interventions. The escalating prevalence of cardiovascular diseases and the demand for personalized care drive the evolving landscape, with technologies like wearables and AI reshaping patient-centric healthcare. Wearable devices offer real-time monitoring, enhancing procedural precision and patient outcomes. AI facilitates risk assessment and personalized treatment strategies, revolutionizing intervention precision. Minimally invasive procedures, aided by robotics and novel materials, minimize patient impact and improve outcomes. 3D printing enables patient-specific implants, while regenerative medicine promises cardiac regeneration. Augmented reality headsets empower surgeons during procedures, enhancing precision and awareness. Novel materials and radiation reduction techniques further optimize interventions, prioritizing patient safety. Data security measures ensure patient privacy in the era of connected healthcare. Modern technologies enhance traditional surgeries, refining outcomes. The integration of these innovations promises to shape a healthier future for cardiovascular procedures, emphasizing collaboration and research to maximize their transformative potential.

Sensor-Based Measurement Method to Support the Assessment of Robot-Assisted Radiofrequency Ablation

Digital surgery technologies, such as interventional robotics and sensor systems, not only improve patient care but also aid in the development and optimization of traditional invasive treatments and methods. Atrial Fibrillation (AF) is the most common cardiac arrhythmia with critical clinical relevance today. Delayed intervention can lead to heart failure, stroke, or sudden cardiac death. Although many advances have been made in the field of radiofrequency (RF) catheter ablation (CA), it can be further developed by incorporating sensor technology to improve its efficacy and safety. Automation can be utilized to shorten the duration of RF ablation, provided that the interactions between the tissue and the RF tools are well understood and adequately modeled. Further research is needed to develop the optimal catheter design. This paper describes the systematic methodology developed to support robot-assisted RF CA characterization measurements. The article describes the custom instruments developed for the experiments, particularly the contact force limiter, the measurement procedure, and the evaluation of the results, as enablers for new results. The aim was to establish an objective, repeatable, robust measurement method and adjacent procedure.