From Roomba to Robotic Surgery - Takeaways - MDSpire

From Roomba to Robotic Surgery

The promise of robotic cataract surgery has been floating through the halls of ophthalmology meetings for years, and it appears the promise is now on its way to reality.

  • By

  • Mark A. Kontos, MD, co-chief medical editor

  • July 1, 2026

  • 3 min

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    The first robot-assisted cataract surgery was performed using the Polaris robotic platform developed by Horizon Surgical Systems.

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    Surgeons control the instruments from a cockpit, utilizing real-time augmentation and guidance overlays on a 3D monitor.

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    The Polaris unit features robotic arms that allow for interchangeable instruments to perform incisions and cataract removal.

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    Commercial availability of the Polaris unit is not expected soon, requiring further investment and development.

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    Debates regarding the pros, cons, and economics of robotic surgery technology are ongoing among medical professionals.

Original Source(s)

From Roomba to Robotic Surgery

  • by Mark A. Kontos, MD, co-chief medical editor

  • July 1, 2026

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