Safety issues concerning medical robotics

Abstract

There are a number of areas in which robotic technology has the potential to contribute positively to the provision of health care. There is however considerable concern over the issue of safety and, in particular the lack of guidelines for assessing and determining acceptable risk. This situation has slowed the development of medical robots, particularly by large companies who fear exposure to litigation on a massive scale. It has also served to limit the performance and functionality of existing systems in an effort to control risk. There is a clear need for debate between the relevant stakeholders (or their representatives) in order to establish a coherent set of guidelines so that development can advance to the point where the risks and benefits are properly in balance. The author looks at the areas of health care in which robots are already used and considers the safety issues involved in further developments.