Description

Magnetic medical robots, ranging from millimeter-sized devices to nanometer-scale systems, are revolutionizing healthcare by enabling minimally invasive procedures, precise drug delivery, and targeted interventions. These technologies leverage the unique advantages of magnetism, including wireless actuation, scalability, and the ability to operate in delicate anatomical regions. While significant progress has been made in developing and applying these systems, the field still faces substantial challenges, such as optimizing actuation and control mechanisms, improving biocompatibility, and scaling innovations across different medical applications.
The proposed workshop aims to bring together researchers working at different scales and on diverse procedures to foster a multidisciplinary dialogue about the current state and future potential of magnetic medical robots. By convening as a community, we seek to exchange insights, discuss challenges, and inspire collaboration.

Key discussion topics will include:

1. Actuation, Control and Navigation: Sharing advances in real-time magnetic control, imaging integration, and feedback systems for improved precision.

2. Clinical Translation: Discuss regulatory and translational challenges for deploying magnetic robots in real-world settings.

3. Cross-Scale Learning: Identifying common challenges and lessons learned across systems operating at different scales.

Through presentations, panel discussions, and interactive sessions, participants will have the opportunity to present findings, learn from peers, and explore collaborative avenues.
Despite the topic being of interest to many research groups and startups, this would be the first workshop on this topic at the Hamlyn Symposium. We believe that it would represent an important opportunity for the community to come together and debate recent findings and future opportunities.

Programme

The programme will be published in May.

Learning Outcomes

Participants in the workshop will gain a comprehensive understanding of the latest advancements in magnetic medical robots, spanning millimeter to nanometer scales. By engaging with experts and peers, attendees will gain insights into the interdisciplinary challenges and opportunities associated with designing, controlling, and applying these innovative systems in medical contexts.

Key learning outcomes include:

1. Cross-Scale Knowledge Integration: Attendees will learn how principles and solutions from one scale can inform and enhance developments at other scales, fostering a unified approach to innovation in the field.

2. Advanced Control Techniques: Participants will discuss state-of-the-art control methods for magnetic robots, including strategies for precise navigation, actuation, and real-time feedback across diverse anatomical environments.

3. Collaborative Opportunities: Through interactive sessions, participants will exchange insights, identify shared challenges, and establish networks for future collaboration.

By the end of the workshop, attendees will be better equipped to contribute to the field’s growth and apply learned concepts to their own research and development efforts, ultimately advancing healthcare innovation.