Smart soft sensors restore surgeons' sense of touch in minimally invasive procedures

MedicalXpress | Apr 28, 2026

Researchers at NYU Abu Dhabi have developed soft, flexible sensors that help restore a surgeon's sense of touch during minimally invasive (keyhole) surgery. These procedures allow for faster recovery and less pain, but surgeons lose the ability to feel how much force they are applying through long instruments. This makes it harder to safely handle delicate tissue.