Soft robots go right to the site of kidney stones

An international team led by the University of Waterloo has developed a robotic technology to dissolve painful uric acid kidney stones quickly and non-invasively. The method uses soft, magnet-fitted strips about a centimetre long, containing the enzyme urease, which reduces urine acidity and dissolves stones within days. Guided by a robotic arm and real-time ultrasound, the strips are positioned near stones inside the urinary tract. Current treatments often involve slow-acting oral medication, painkillers, or surgery in urgent cases. This new approach could benefit patients who frequently develop stones, cannot tolerate medication, or face surgical risks. Tested in a 3D-printed urinary tract model, the system offers faster relief, reduces healthcare burdens, and avoids repeated surgeries. Next steps include animal trials and refining the control system. Findings were published in Advanced Healthcare Materials.