Tom Shkurti

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About

Tom Shkurti is a researcher whose work sits at the intersection of computer vision, robotics, and surgical automation. His research focuses on developing intelligent algorithms that enable autonomous robotic systems to perform complex surgical tasks with precision and reliability. Shkurti's most notable contribution, "Three-Dimensional Surgical Needle Localization and Tracking Using Stereo Endoscopic Image Streams" (2018), has garnered 20 citations and represents a significant advance in the field. By combining Bayesian state estimation, computer vision, and robot kinematics within the da Vinci® Surgical Robotic System, he helped lay the groundwork for reliable intraoperative needle tracking — a critical challenge in minimally invasive surgery. Building on this foundation, his 2021 paper on visually guided autonomous suturing demonstrates his commitment to translating perception capabilities into full surgical workflows, incorporating needle path planning and optimum grasp selection. Together, these works reflect a coherent research vision: bridging the gap between robotic perception and autonomous surgical action. Shkurti's contributions are particularly valuable to students and researchers exploring medical robotics, computer-assisted surgery, and the future of autonomous operating room technologies.