World’s First Robotic-Assisted Cataract Surgery
Horizon Surgical Systems announced the completion of the first cataract surgery assisted by robotics using its Polaris platform, which integrates micro-robotic and artificial intelligence technologies designed specifically for ophthalmology.
The procedure marks the first reported use of a robotic system for cataract surgery. Horizon Surgical Systems develops robotic and AI technologies for ophthalmic procedures.
The procedure was completed by Uday Devgan, M.D., FACS, a renowned cataract surgeon. He is in private practice in Los Angeles and has previously served as full clinical Professor of Ophthalmology at the Jules Stein Eye Institute at the UCLA School of Medicine. Devgan serves as a consultant and shareholder for Horizon Surgical Systems.
Cataract surgery is a common procedure worldwide, with over 5 million annual cases in the United States. Clinical outcomes are influenced by technique, case complexity, and experience. Polaris is the first surgical platform purpose-built for ophthalmology that fuses AI-driven visualization with micro-robotic control. Designed to extend, not replace, surgeons’ capabilities, Polaris aims to deliver consistent outcomes, greater precision, and improved efficiency while addressing the global challenge of rising patient demand.
The Polaris platform combines four major components - microsurgical robotic arms that allow for more precise and accurate manipulations; image guidance combining optical coherence tomography, a digital microscope, and other sensors that reconstruct anatomy in real time; machine learning allowing for real-time tissue differentiation and continuous improvement; and automation for increased throughput and consistent outcomes.
Dr. Devgan stated that the Polaris platform offers enhanced control during surgery and may improve the reliability of patient outcomes by addressing inconsistencies between procedures. According to CEO Jean Pierre Hubschman, Horizon Surgical Systems plans further clinical testing of Polaris and intends to pursue FDA approval and commercial release.
About Horizon Surgical Systems
Horizon Surgical Systems develops robotic and AI-based technologies for ophthalmic surgery. The company was established as a UCLA spin-out and is led by Jean-Pierre Hubschman, M.D., Jacob Rosen, Ph.D., Rajesh K. Rajpal, M.D., and Pooria Kashani, Ph.D.
Source: Horizon Surgical Systems