<p>This review explores the advancements in medical treatments involving tiny micro- and nanorobots, which are specifically designed for cellular interventions within the human body. This section discusses the propulsion mechanism, materials used, and biomedical applications of functionalized micro- and nanorobots, such as respirocytes, microbivores, clottocytes, swarm nanorobots, magnetic microrobots, and artificial cells, as well as their limitations and challenges. This article discusses the use of micro- and nanorobots in medical applications such as blood transfusion, underwater breathing, biofilm digestion, viral removal, biological sensing, detoxification, anaemia treatment, child-related disorders, asphyxia, cardiovascular diseases, cancer, and bacterial infections. It also highlights how these robots are transforming medicine by enabling controlled drug delivery, focused treatment, and precision surgery, enhancing therapeutic efficacy and reducing adverse effects. Micro- and nanorobots are promising tools for precision surgery, as they target specific cells or tissues for disorders such as cancer. They can perform minimally invasive treatments with high accuracy, shorten recovery time and improve patient outcomes. However, concerns about biocompatibility and safe breakdown remain. Further assessment of their safety in medical and environmental contexts is needed. These small robots could transform healthcare and medicine in the near future.</p> Graphical abstract <p></p>