BEIJING, September 6, 2026 (Agencies) — Chinese doctors have performed what has been described as the world’s first congenital heart disease procedure guided by an artificial intelligence-powered ultrasound robot, marking a significant development in robotic-assisted cardiac care.
The procedure was carried out by the Senior Department of Cardiology at the Sixth Medical Center of the Chinese PLA General Hospital on a 48-year-old man with congenital heart disease.
Unlike conventional interventional robots that mainly assist with device delivery, the new system combines AI image recognition with robotic manipulation. During the procedure, the robot autonomously acquired ultrasound images, located the lesion and provided real-time navigation, helping doctors accurately deploy the closure device.
The technology is designed to improve precision and safety, reduce the risk of human error and shorten procedure times. It could also reduce reliance on individual physicians’ experience in complex ultrasound-guided interventions.
The breakthrough could eventually support remote robotic procedures and provide medical assistance in areas with limited access to specialist doctors, including emergency and battlefield settings.
The development adds to China’s growing use of robotics in cardiac care, although medical specialists remain responsible for clinical decisions and managing unexpected complications.