Robotics and automation

Robotics is already changing everyday life in the medical technology industry and healthcare. Precise assistance systems enable minimally invasive procedures that are gentler on patients. One example of this is the Da Vinci system from Intuitive Surgical. In rehabilitation, robotic exoskeletons help a patient relearn movements. The HAL (Hybrid Assistive Limb) exoskeleton from CyberDyne, for example, supports people who learn to walk again after injuries. And in laboratories, automation accelerates the evaluation and processing of samples. This reduces human error and frees up staff for more important tasks. One example of this is the goodBot pipetting robot, which is portable and modular.

Intelligent automation can take over repetitive tasks in clinical practice. This leaves more time for personal care. Advanced automated systems also standardize processes in the industry and optimize manufacturing in the production of devices.

At MEDICA 2025, the topic will be particularly visible in the MED TECH & DEVICES sphere. Visitors will be able to experience demonstrations of surgical robots and see automated laboratory equipment. They will also have the opportunity to talk to developers. The topic will also play a role in the forums, particularly in the MEDICA TECH FORUM and the MEDICA INNOVATION FORUM.

As a trade fair, MEDICA provides a space for direct contact between researchers, manufacturers, and users. As a central platform in the healthcare sector, it showcases forward-looking solutions and products that pave the way for innovations in clinical practice. The Fair Match tool offers the opportunity to network even before the start of the fair, allowing you to find partners who can help you implement new solutions.

Companies at MEDICA present a wide range of products from the fields of robotics and automation for the healthcare sector. These include assistance systems for surgery, mobile transport robots for logistics in clinics, robotic care aids such as robotic arms that lift and turn patients, exoskeletons for rehabilitation, and systems for laboratories.

The program also includes systems for imaging and radiation therapy: in both cases, for example, robotic arms position patients in such a way that precise treatment is possible.

Overall, the fields of surgery, orthopedics, oncology, diagnostics, and nursing benefit particularly from systems that increase precision, reduce the workload on staff, and enhance safety.

Companies at MEDICA that focus on robotics solutions – from market leaders to start-ups – include KUKA AG, whose robotic arm originally comes from industrial manufacturing, AES motomation GmbH, and AKTORmed GmbH, which specializes in complex microsurgery.

You can see many of these systems directly at the exhibition stands and obtain advice on implementing them in their company or clinic. Direct contact with developers offers practical insights into current technologies and innovations.

Robotics not only improves the quality of treatment in clinics, but also makes the process more efficient. For doctors and other healthcare providers, this often means relief from time-consuming routine tasks. Patients benefit from shorter procedure times, lower complication rates, and faster recovery phases.

Automated systems increase process reliability in laboratories and operating rooms. Standardized processes ensure that diagnostic results are reproducible and reliable. In medical technology, automation improves quality, for example in the manufacture of implants or imaging devices.

Nursing also benefits: robots take over transport tasks, deliver materials, and assist with physically demanding activities. This allows skilled workers to devote more of their time to human interaction – a crucial factor given the shortage of skilled workers.

Innovative systems can simplify complex workflows. This not only increases efficiency, but also the accuracy of procedures and diagnoses. Exchange between research and application is crucial for the continuous development of new procedures.

The use of robotics brings with it technical, regulatory, and ethical challenges. The industry must meet high standards of safety, hygiene, and reliability. Clinics are faced with the question of how to amortize investment costs and integrate robotic systems more efficiently into existing structures.

At the same time, it is important to gain the trust of staff in new technologies. Integrating new systems into existing work environments requires careful planning. Interfaces to existing devices, staff training, and infrastructure adjustments all play a role here. Developing appropriate strategies is one of the key factors for successful implementation. Technology should not be integrated for its own sake, but must relieve the burden on staff and meaningfully support and improve workflow.

At MEDICA 2025, visitors will have the opportunity to discuss these issues directly with technology providers and experts. The fair will thus become a focal point for professional cooperation on forward-looking developments in robotics and automation – from idea to implementation in clinical practice.