Materials and Robustness

A key step to enabling miniaturized surgical devices is the development of robust yet flexible milli- and micrometer scale designs. As is noted by Hsu [21], similar micromachining technology as that used in the fabrication of silicon-based integrated circuits (ICs) is used in the manufacture of microelectromechanical systems. Surgical devices are complex 

A shift toward utilizing physicochemical processes, newer materials, and techniques is inevitable [23]. Processes such as wafer bonding [24], stereolithography [25], and self-assembly [2 can enable complex 3D structure fabrication. Smart composite microstructures [27] of carbon, silicon, polymer, etc., can provide for robust structures with flexible joints. For tools, metals such as stainless steel, platinum-tantalum, and nickel-titanium or natural materials such as gelatin and collagen can be used. 

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