Guest Renee Zhao works at the cutting-edge of robotic surgery – literally. Emboldened by advances in 3D-printing and miniaturization, she builds “millibots,” magnet-controlled, millimeter-scale soft robots that navigate the bloodstream to remove blood clots and treat brain aneurysms. While the millibot’s promise is clear, much work remains before the devices are commonplace. Revolutionizing health care with surgical robots will require a delicate balance of design, buildability, and functionality, Zhao tells host Russ Altman on this episode of Stanford Engineering’s The Future of Everything podcast.Have a question for Russ? Send it our way in writing or via voice memo, and it might be featured on an upcoming episode. Please introduce yourself, let us know where you're listening from, and share your quest. You can send questions to [email protected] Reference Links:Stanford Profile:  Renee ZhaoConnect With Us:Episode Transcripts >>> The Future of Everything WebsiteConnect with Russ >>> Threads / Bluesky / MastodonConnect with School of Engineering >>> Twitter/X / Instagram / LinkedIn / FacebookChapters:(00:00:00) IntroductionRuss Altman introduces guest Renee Zhao, a professor of mechanical engineering at Stanford University.(00:03:34) Robotic Surgery and HealthcareRenee’s inspiration for soft robotics and its potential in healthcare applications.(00:05:49) Current Status of Robotic SurgeryCurrent robotic surgery technologies and the push for more advanced solutions.(00:09:32) Nature-Inspired Soft RoboticsHow soft robotic systems are ideal for working within delicate human tissues.(00:11:41) Millirobotic SystemsRecently developed millimeter-sized robots that swim and navigate blood vessels.(00:14:46) Millirobot ControlThe role of magnetic fields and imaging technology for robot navigation.(00:17:18) Treating Blood Clots and AneurysmsThe multifunctional abilities of robots to deliver drugs and treat blood clots.(00:19:46) Doctor’s Reaction to New TechnologyExcitement for the new robotic advancements amongst the need for better tools.(00:21:04) Trends in Robot Size and FunctionalityThe design challenges for creating small yet functional robots.(00:25:52) AI and Machine Learning in Robotic DesignAI’s role in optimizing robot design for specific patients.(00:28:59)  Why Millimeter-Scale RobotsWhy millirobots strike the right balance for performance and functionality.(00:32:34) Conclusion
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