Robotic implant for tubular tissue growth. Robotic implant for tubular tissue growth. (A) For the treatment of long-gap esophageal atresia, the implant applies forces (F) to disconnected esophageal segments. After inducing sufficient growth, the segments are surgically connected to form a complete esophagus. (B) As a potential treatment for short bowel syndrome, the implant applies forces (F) to connected segment of bowel. By inducing sufficient lengthening to support the absorption of necessary calories and fluids, a dependence on intravenous feeding could be reduced or eliminated. (C) The robot is covered by biocompatible waterproof skin and is attached to tubular organ by two rings (esophageal segment shown). The upper ring is fixed to the robot body, whereas lower ring translates along the body. (D) Robot with skin removed to show motor drive system and sensors. Rotation of worm gear causes the lower ring to translate along the body. (E) Rings detach from robot body to facilitate attachment to tubular organ. (F) Tissue is attached to the ring using sutures. (G) In the Foker technique for treating long-gap esophageal atresia (21), sutures externalized on the patient’s back are used to apply forces (F) to esophageal segments. Dana D. Damian et al. Sci. Robotics 2018;3:eaaq0018 Copyright © 2018 The Authors, some rights reserved; exclusive licensee American Association for the Advancement of Science. No claim to original U.S. Government Works