KU Leuven develops robot that makes back surgery more precise, safer and radiation-free
KU Leuven has presented a new surgical robot that promises to make back operations more precise, safer and entirely free of radiation. The system, demonstrated to the press on Thursday, offers major advantages for both patients and surgeons.
During the presentation, two robotic arms worked in tandem: one continually captured ultrasound images of a simulated spine, while the other drilled into the bone. In future, procedures involving the placement of screws and plates in the spine could be performed this way.
“Currently, the surgery is performed manually: a surgeon drills into a vertebra to insert screws. They do this based on a previously performed X-ray or CT scan, and often by performing a second scan during the surgery,” says Manu Vander Poorten of KU Leuven, professor of surgical robotics. “That requires radiation. The drilling also requires a tremendous degree of precision, which isn’t easy.”
Safety advantages
By using real-time ultrasound instead of X-rays or CT scans, the new system removes the need for radiation altogether. Surgeons and patients are therefore no longer exposed to ionising radiation, nor must the surgical team wear heavy lead aprons.
The robot’s two arms operate in synchronised movements. If the ultrasound detects even a slight movement of the spine, the drilling arm automatically corrects its trajectory. This ensures accuracy beyond what is possible manually.
“Thanks to the robot, the operation is performed minimally invasively,” says doctoral researcher Kaat Van Assche. “As a result, only small incisions need to be made in the patient’s skin and muscles. This should also speed up recovery: patients can actually go home the very next day after the procedure. They no longer have to stay for a long time because their back had to be completely opened up.”
Although similar technologies exist elsewhere, this is the first system of its kind developed in Belgium. More than 20,000 patients undergo such spinal procedures in Belgium each year, all of whom could eventually benefit. However, the robot is not expected to reach operating theatres for another five to six years, as further research, testing and refinement are still required before commercialisation.
#FlandersNewsService | Demonstration of a new dual-armed robot for safer and faster spinal surgery at KU Leuven, 11 December 2025 © BELGA PHOTO INE GILLIS
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