Hubly Surgical gains FDA Clearance for expanded use of auto-stop drill in spinal procedures

Hubly Surgical announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration has granted 510(k) clearance expanding the indications for its Hubly Auto-Stop Drill to include spinal decompression procedures. The clearance allows the device—originally designed for cranial surgery—to be used in laminectomy and laminotomy operations, enabling surgeons to drill through the vertebral lamina while protecting the spinal cord from potential injury.

The Hubly Auto-Stop Drill is a single-use, cordless tool designed with a SMART auto-stop feature that detects bone breakthrough and instantly halts rotation, preventing over-penetration. The drill also includes a tapered stainless-steel bit to prevent forward plunge and real-time visual force indicators for greater control.

“The Hubly Drill for Neuro ICU has worked perfectly every time. I love that thing,” said David Santiago-Dieppa, Chief of Regional Neurosurgery at UC San Diego Health, where the device underwent usability and cadaver testing. “In our cadaver lab, the Hubly Drill felt safer for the dura and faster for the patient.”

Hubly Surgical CEO Casey Qadir called the clearance “a pivotal step for Hubly’s platform,” adding that the company’s goal is to “save and improve lives by giving surgeons intuitive tools that protect critical tissue every single time.”

Advances in neurosurgical drilling and spinal safety

The expansion of automated and sensor-assisted surgical tools marks a growing trend toward improving precision and safety in neurosurgery and spinal care. Traditional surgical drills rely heavily on a surgeon’s tactile feedback and experience to prevent over-drilling, which can lead to brain or spinal cord injury. Recent innovations have introduced sensor-driven mechanisms, haptic feedback, and auto-stop systems that can detect changes in resistance within milliseconds—stopping before tissue damage occurs.

Beyond mechanical safety, advances in materials and power systems are contributing to better surgical performance. Cordless, lightweight instruments reduce clutter in the operating field and streamline workflow, while disposable or modular designs minimize sterilization burdens and infection risks. Real-time feedback indicators and integrated digital interfaces are also making procedures more consistent across surgical teams.

These innovations align with broader efforts to enhance surgical ergonomics and reduce human error, particularly in high-stakes neurological and orthopedic operations. As precision medicine and smart technology continue to merge in the operating room, tools like the Hubly Auto-Stop Drill demonstrate how automation can augment—not replace—surgical skill, creating safer and more efficient care for patients.