Robots the size of rice grains aim to revolutionize brain surgery

Robeauté's rice-sized robot aims to transform brain surgery with $28M funding, targeting less invasive procedures.

: Paris-based Robeauté secured nearly $28 million to advance a microrobot designed for brain surgery. The self-propelled bot, co-founded by Bertrand Duplat, can aid neurosurgeons by minimizing tissue damage and is initially intended for biopsies. Future applications include targeted drug delivery and electrode implantation for conditions like Parkinson's. Trials began on animal cadavers in 2021, with hopes for human testing in 2026 pending FDA approval.

Robeauté, a startup founded in 2017 in Paris, is revolutionizing brain surgery with its microrobot the size of a rice grain. Having secured nearly $28 million in venture capital, the self-propelled microrobot aids neurosurgeons by being less invasive compared to traditional tools, minimizing tissue damage in delicate brain surgeries.

The bot is initially designed for collecting tissue samples via biopsies but has potential future applications, such as delivering drugs to specific brain regions or implanting electrodes to treat conditions like Parkinson's. The inspiration came from co-founder Bertrand Duplat's experience with his mother's inoperable brain tumor.

Robeauté conducted trials on animal cadavers in 2021, followed by tests on human cadavers and live animals. They aim to begin testing in humans by 2026, but achieving FDA approval is essential first. Joana Cartocci, co-founder, highlighted strong support from the medical community, with neurosurgeons recognizing the robot's potential.