Max Robotics — Global Service Robot Directory + US Certification

About

Craig McKinley is a pioneering figure in telerobotic surgery, whose work has fundamentally expanded the reach of surgical expertise across vast distances. His primary research areas include remote telepresence surgery, telementoring, and the deployment of robotic systems in extreme environments. McKinley’s most significant contribution is his role in establishing the world’s first telerobotic remote surgical service, a landmark achievement detailed in his highly cited 2005 paper (226 citations). This service connected a teaching hospital with a rural facility, enabling advanced laparoscopic procedures for underserved communities. He also conducted critical research on the impact of signal latency on surgical precision, demonstrating that tasks could be completed with latencies up to 500 ms (113 citations), a finding that challenged previous assumptions and paved the way for long-distance operations. Further showcasing his versatility, McKinley contributed to the use of portable telesurgical robots during NASA’s NEEMO 7 and 9 missions, exploring surgical capabilities in extreme underwater environments. Through his work, McKinley has not only advanced the technical feasibility of remote surgery but also highlighted its profound potential to democratize access to specialized care.