First humanoid robots perform surgery remotely in breakthrough operation

Two human-shaped robots stood holding equipment in an operating theatre – and for the first time, they performed surgery. The machines were remotely controlled by surgeons, marking a milestone in medical robotics. The achievement was carried out at the University of California San Diego, according to the BBC's Tech Life programme. An expert involved in the procedure discussed the breakthrough on the show, presented by Shiona McCallum and produced by Tom Quinn. The episode also featured the inventor of the infinite scroll, who shared his latest thoughts on social media, and a carbon capture solution designed to curb greenhouse gas emissions from cargo ships. But the surgical feat dominated: two humanoid robots, working under remote guidance, successfully completed an operation. The precise nature of the surgery and patient outcomes were not disclosed, but the demonstration shows that humanoid robots can be integrated into real surgical settings. For the first time, surgeons were able to operate at a distance, using robots that mimicked human movements. The success raises the possibility of remote surgery becoming more common, particularly for patients in remote or underserved areas. As the Tech Life episode noted, the robots stood holding equipment and performed the operation – a scene that could transform how surgery is delivered worldwide.