Robotics-driven HealthCare and Assistive Technologies: A Comprehensive Review
Keywords:
AI-assisted, Cyber-physical, Internet of medical things, Robotics, Quantum-AI, sensors, healthcare roboticsAbstract
This article provides a comprehensive review of the healthcare robotics paradigm, which has evolved from isolated mechanical systems to a pervasive, interconnected cyber-physical ecosystem that underpins digital transformation in medicine. This ecosystem, often termed the Internet of Medical Things (IoMT), encompasses billions of heterogeneous devices, from surgical robotic assistants to nanoscale sensors. As of 2024-2025, the medical robotics market is valued at over USD 12.98 billion, with the assistive robotics sector valued at an additional USD 10.46 billion. This growth, driven by compound annual growth rates (CAGRs) exceeding 16.1% and 20.9%, respectively, is predicated on the integration of intelligent algorithms, advanced connectivity, and novel economic models. Built on the principle of closing the cyber-physical control loop, healthcare robotics translates diagnostic data and clinical commands into precise physical actuation. Despite rapid adoption, significant challenges persist in system interoperability, data security, and the critical need for new workforce competencies. This article analyses the core application domains, from AI-assisted surgery to socially assistive care. It examines the foundational enabling technologies—including 5G for telesurgery, edge computing for real-time inference, and blockchain for data integrity. Furthermore, it analyses the economic shift to Robotics-as-a-Service (RaaS) models that are mitigating long-standing cost barriers. Finally, the article explores future trajectories involving 6G-enabled haptics, Quantum-AI for diagnostics, and neuromorphic computing for adaptive assistive devices.
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