Bionic Surgical Glove Combines Art and Robotics

A lightweight, hand-held tool translates a surgeon's natural hand motions into complex movements inside the patient.

The Human Xtensions (Netanya, Israel) HandX is a smart, electromechanically simplified modular platform that combines robotic surgery benefits and those of hand-held laparoscopic instruments. The device is composed of a sophisticated user interface that enables unrestricted hand movement, and novel, motor driven articulation that is controlled by the interface. The system is cordless, lightweight, does not require any set up time, and can be easily moved between laparoscopic trocars and perform complex motions in the surgical field.


Designed for use in a wide variety of complex minimally invasive surgery (MIS) procedures, HandX can be tailored to a surgeon’s skill level as well as to specific tasks. The modular design supports diverse 5 mm surgical tools, shafts, and end effectors, which can be passed though trocars. As a result, access and natural freedom of movement are enhanced, allowing rapid conversion of open surgery into MIS. The affordable, cost-effective system also offers an alternative to heavyweight robotic systems that are operated remotely.

“We believe in technology that gives virtuosic capacity to surgeons. The HandX demonstrates Human Xtensions' commitment to driving the art of surgery into new frontiers,” said Tami Frenkel, co-founder, chairman, and CEO of Human Xtensions. “We are proud to develop solutions that open a new era in surgery, and to serve as the company on the horizon that offers smart multifunctional handheld platforms, suited for a wide range of MIS.”

HandX is the first device in a new medical reality the Human Xtensions calls Artefficient Surgery, which provides personalized digital platforms combining the power of surgical robotics with the ease and affordability of hand-held solutions.

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