Robotic TEE Imaging Used in Humans for the First Time
Robotic TEE Imaging Used in Humans for the First Time
Source: JACC– May 22, 2025
Key Highlights:
1. What happened?
Cardiologists in Germany used a robotic transesophageal echocardiography (TEE) system in humans for the first time — safely and successfully.
2. What is the new technology?
A robotic system (developed by ROB’E) that allows doctors to remotely control the TEE probe, improving safety and precision.
3. Who were the patients?
5 patients:
• 3 with severe heart valve disease
• 2 with suspected PFO after stroke
All underwent both manual and robotic TEE exams.
4. Results:
• No complications reported
• 100% success rate in acquiring images
• 75% reproducibility of saved ultrasound views
• Average switching time between saved views: 16.28 seconds — faster and more efficient than expected
5. Why is this important?
• Drastically reduces radiation exposure for doctors
• Allows precise and consistent imaging
• Safer for patients
• May help expand access in underserved regions
• Could encourage more women to enter the field, by removing physical and radiation-related barriers — helping promote greater gender diversity in interventional imaging
6. Future potential:
• Shorter procedure times
• Fewer repeat procedures
• Supports AI tools for early heart disease detection
• Could reduce overall healthcare costs
7. Who led the study?
• Dr. Jury Schewel (Germany)
• Dr. Rebecca Hahn (Columbia University)
• Dr. Martin Leon (CRF Founder)
All are affiliated with ROB’E as leaders or advisors.
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