A literature review: robots in medicine.

Robotic systems employed in the laboratory, in rehabilitation, and in surgery are reviewed. The advantages of using a robot system over manual procedures in the laboratory to prepare samples is discussed, and some of the obstacles are noted. A typical laboratory robot is described. Rehabilitative applications in the major research areas of tactile sensors, assistive devices for the blind, prosthetics, and orthotics are examined. Manipulators that can help a disabled individual with important everyday tasks and other assistive robotic systems in rehabilitation are described. A variety of robots that assist or perform surgery is surveyed. These applications include positioning in stereotactic neurosurgery, patient manipulation, an in vivo spinal kinematic instrument, and robotic radial keratotomy, among others.