Citations

Autonomous robotic-assisted surgery (RAS) has emerged as a promising objective in biomedical technology, further enhanced by miniaturization toward microrobotic-assisted surgery (μ-RAS). This reduction in scale promises minimally invasive, partially or fully automated surgical procedures, with the potential to reduce patient recovery times, lower medical costs, and enable previously unavailable procedural options. This perspective highlights the specific advances in RAS that potentially map to the microscale (μ-RAS), organized across five surgical domains: endovascular, endoluminal, laparoscopic, ophthalmic, and orthopedic. We examine both clinical demands and technological advances in surgical robotics and identify the key innovations required for progress across these surgical fields. Our contribution is distinct in combining the perspectives of both surgical experts and bioengineering innovators, outlining a roadmap for the advancement and eventual integration of autonomous RAS and μ-RAS into mainstream surgical practice.

AbstractDue to multiple medical advances over the past several years, angiographic investigation into arterial insufficiency as the cause of erectile dysfunction has decreased. Due to this, there is a general lack of familiarity with penile angiography technique and arterial anatomy, among current practicing interventional radiologists. Some potential indications for penile angiography include evaluation of penile trauma, high-flow priapism, further diagnostic evaluation of an abnormal penile Doppler ultrasound, or in the evaluation or treatment of erectile dysfunction with endovascular or surgical treatments. These indications, although relatively rare, still require practicing IRs to be familiar with angiographic anatomy of the penis. This article will briefly review angiographic technique in penile angiography with an emphasis on arterial anatomy.

AbstractA thorough understanding of normal biliary anatomy, common variants, and surgically altered anatomy is essential for the success of biliary interventions. Variations in biliary anatomy are seen in up to 40% of patients and frequently influence procedural planning and outcomes. This review highlights classical biliary anatomy, its common variations, and the challenges posed by surgical modifications, such as those encountered after cholecystectomy, liver resection, or biliary reconstructions. Case-based examples are used to explore the implications of these variations and modifications on interventional approaches, including the management of bile leaks, strictures, and complex obstructions. Strategies incorporating advanced imaging and procedural techniques, such as rendezvous interventions, are discussed to address complications and optimize outcomes. This article provides a practical framework for interventional radiologists to navigate challenging biliary cases with confidence and precision.

AbstractPortosystemic collateral pathways are a significant concern in interventional radiology, frequently manifesting in patients with cirrhosis or portal vein thrombosis. These pathways can lead to severe clinical complications, including gastrointestinal bleeding, hepatic encephalopathy, and liver failure. A thorough understanding of the anatomy, hemodynamic alterations, and clinical implications of these shunts is crucial for interventional radiologists to provide effective treatment while minimizing risks. This article reviews the clinical presentations associated with portosystemic shunts, explores the anatomical variants and altered flow dynamics, and discusses the latest endovascular treatment strategies to optimize patient outcomes.

AbstractLiver transplantation is becoming increasingly common in the United States, with very favorable 1- and 5-year survival rates. With increasing long-term survival rates, postprocedural vascular complications can occur with increased frequency. Familiarity with posttransplant vascular anatomy is essential for interventional radiologists dealing with this patient population. This article discusses the posttransplant venous, arterial, and biliary anatomy and the implications for minimally invasive interventions.

AbstractNew understanding of the lymphatic system as well as increasing recognition of its importance in various pathologies have increased the opportunity to perform lymphatic interventions. Advancement in our understanding of the lymphatic system anatomy, including variations, combined with improved imaging has renewed interest in both surgical and interventional management of a wide range of complex lymphatic pathologies. It is important for the proceduralist to recognize the anatomy, variability, and physiology of the lymphatic system, including lower extremity lymphatic drainage, cisterna chyli location, and thoracic duct drainage. The purpose of this study is to convey the practical aspects of performing lymphatic interventions in an effort to improve the speed and reliability of these procedures.

AbstractThis article aims to assist radiologists in navigating the vascular and biliary anatomy of post-transplant patients, thereby enhancing their diagnostic accuracy and determining the need for potential interventions. We have detailed established methods for anastomosis between the donor and recipient arterial, hepatic venous, portal venous, and biliary systems, while omitting surgical techniques, vascular shunting, and operative procedures, as our primary audience is radiologists. The focus of this review is on inflow and outflow of both blood and bile. Given the numerous possible anastomosis points in hepatic transplantation, familiarizing radiologists with these variations will support their efforts in identifying crucial structures in post-transplant patients.