The state of robotic surgery in 2024

Robotic surgery, also known as robot-assisted surgery, is a minimally invasive surgical approach that uses robotic systems to aid surgeons in performing complex procedures. 

• Precise robotic systems typically consist of a surgeon console, a patient-side cart with robotic arms, and a high-definition 3D vision system. The surgeon controls the robotic arms from the console, translating their hand movements into precise, fluid, real-time actions inside the patient's body.
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• The surgical robotics industry is experiencing breakneck growth, driven by an aging population, increasing demand for minimally invasive procedures, and technological advancements. Precedence Research predicts the market will reach USD 36.37 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 16.4% from 2023 to 2032.
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• Robotic systems can mean less pain, scarring, and patient blood loss, faster recovery times, and shorter hospital stays. For surgeons, robotic systems can offer more precision, skill, and visualization, opening up new avenues to perform complex procedures with more accuracy and control. No hands are steadier than robot hands. 

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Major surgical robotics companies 

1. Intuitive Surgical 

The undisputed leader in the field, Intuitive Surgical is synonymous with robotic surgery, thanks to its iconic da Vinci surgical system.

• da Vinci surgical system: This groundbreaking platform enables minimally invasive surgery across many specialties, including urology, gynecology, general surgery, and thoracic surgery.
  
  Its wristed instruments provide surgeons greater agility and range of motion than traditional laparoscopic instruments, while the 3D visualization system offers unparalleled clarity and depth perception.
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• Recent advancements: Intuitive Surgical continues to innovate. It recently received FDA approval for its Ion endoluminal system, designed for minimally invasive peripheral lung biopsies. The company is also expanding into new markets and developing new applications for its da Vinci platform.

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2. Stryker

Stryker is making waves in surgical robotics with its groundbreaking solutions for orthopedic procedures.

• Mako system: This robotic arm-assisted platform is designed for knee and hip replacements; it combines 3D planning with robotic precision to help surgeons create personalized surgical plans and execute them accurately and efficiently. 
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• Things are shaping up: Stryker has continued to develop its Mako system, enhancing its capabilities for total knee, partial knee, and hip replacements. The company is also investing in research and development to bring new robotic solutions to market.

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3. Smith & Nephew

Smith & Nephew is a global medical technology company known for its leading orthopedics, sports medicine, and wound care products.

• Navio Surgical System: This handheld robotic system assists surgeons in partial knee replacements. It uses a CT-free, image-guided approach for precise implant placement and alignment.
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• The future looks bright: Smith & Nephew has expanded the Navio system's applications to include total knee replacements, and other procedures are being developed. 

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4. Asensus Surgical

Asensus Surgical is a pioneer in digital laparoscopy, offering a unique approach to robotic surgery that combines the benefits of minimally invasive surgery with a digital, tech-first approach. 

• Senhance Surgical System: This innovative platform features haptic feedback, eye-tracking camera control, and reusable instruments, making it a cost-effective and sustainable hospital option.
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• More capabilities: Senhance is approved for various procedures, including general surgery, gynecology, urology, and thoracic surgery.
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• Digital know-how: The system's digital interface provides surgeons real-time data and insights, leading to more informed, data-driven surgeries. 

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5. Accuray

Accuray is a leader among medical robotics companies, especially in radiation therapy. Today, it’s focusing on robotic solutions that deliver precise and targeted radiation treatments for cancer patients.

• CyberKnife System: This robotic radiosurgery system delivers high-dose radiation with sub-millimeter accuracy, minimizing damage to healthy tissue and reducing side effects.
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• TomoTherapy System: This radiation therapy system combines CT imaging with helical radiation delivery, allowing for personalized treatment plans that conform to the unique shape of each patient's tumor.
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• Radixact System: This extremely versatile radiation therapy system offers a range of treatment options, including intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT), volumetric modulated arc therapy (VMAT), and stereotactic radiosurgery (SRS).

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6. Medtronic

Medtronic is a global leader in medical technology, with a huge range of products and solutions, including a cutting-edge robotic-assisted surgery platform.

• Hugo™ RAS System: This modular and versatile system is designed for a wide range of soft tissue procedures, including urologic, gynecologic, and general surgery.
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• Open console: The Hugo system features an open console design, allowing surgeons to move freely and interact with the surgical team during procedures.
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• A big focus on accessibility: Medtronic wants to make robotic surgery more accessible to hospitals and patients by offering a cost-effective and adaptable solution.

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7. Globus Medical 

Globus Medical is a big-name musculoskeletal solutions provider using robotics to improve spinal surgery procedures.

• ExcelsiusGPS® system: This robotic navigation and guidance platform assists surgeons in performing spinal surgeries with greater accuracy and precision.
  
  It provides real-time visualization and feedback, helping surgeons place implants and screws with confidence.
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• Excelsius3D™ imaging system: This advanced imaging system provides detailed 3D anatomical views of the spine, allowing surgeons to plan and execute complex procedures more accurately and efficiently.
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• Next, on Globus: Globus Medical is continuously expanding its robotic arsenal, developing new applications for spinal surgery and exploring groundbreaking solutions for other musculoskeletal conditions.

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8. CMR Surgical 

CMR Surgical is a UK-based company developing a next-gen surgical robot to democratize access to minimally invasive surgery.

• Versius® Surgical Robotic System: This versatile and modular system features a portable design, making it easier to transport and set up in different operating rooms.
  
  It also boasts a unique open console design, allowing surgeons to interact freely with their team during procedures.
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• Wherever you may roam: Versius has been adopted by hospitals in Europe, Asia, and Australia, expanding access to minimally invasive surgery in underserved regions.
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• Exploring endless potential: CMR Surgical is developing new instruments and applications for the Versius system to make robotic surgery accessible to a wider range of patients and procedures.

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9. Moon Surgical 

Moon Surgical is a rising name in surgical robotics, aiming to turn the field on its head with its Maestro system.

• Maestro System: This platform combines robotics, machine vision, and data analytics to help surgeons perform complex laparoscopic procedures. It offers enhanced visualization, precision, and control — all for better patient outcomes. 
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• At the forefront of AI innovation: Maestro uses AI to provide surgeons with real-time guidance and decision support, helping them more confidently identify anatomical structures, plan surgical approaches, and execute procedures. 
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• Lots of room for growth: Moon Surgical is still in the early stages of development, but its Maestro system continues to show plenty of promise. 

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10. Johnson & Johnson 

Now for a startup (just kidding). Johnson & Johnson is a global healthcare giant (you may have heard of them) with a diverse portfolio of products and solutions — including a growing presence in the surgical robotics market.

• Ottav system: This robotic-assisted surgery system is designed for various surgical specialties, including general surgery, thoracic surgery, and gynecology. Its modular design allows hospitals to customize the system to their specific needs.
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• Deep pockets: Johnson & Johnson has invested heavily in robotic surgery research and development, acquiring several companies and collaborating with leading academic institutions.
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• It helps to have a good portfolio: The company's strong brand and global reach position it well to compete in the growing surgical robotics market.

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11. Distalmotion

Distalmotion is a Swiss medical device company pushing the boundaries of robotic surgery with its innovative Dexter system.

• Dexter Surgical Robot System: This unique platform combines the benefits of laparoscopy and robotics, giving surgeons greater flexibility and precision for various minimally invasive procedures.
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• Going dual: Dexter features two independently controlled robotic arms, allowing for complex maneuvers and intricate tasks.
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• Lots of good stuff in a small frame: Dexter’s smaller footprint and versatile design suit a wide range of operating room configurations.
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• Easy to use: The surgeon controls Dexter using a comfortable and ergonomic console, enhancing their precision and control. Thus, surgeons don’t need to major in robotics besides their medical degree. 

12. Zimmer Biomet 

Zimmer Biomet is a major player in musculoskeletal healthcare. It uses robotics to improve the accuracy and efficiency of orthopedic surgeries.

• ROSA Knee System: This robotic-assisted platform helps surgeons personalize knee replacement procedures, getting precise implant placement and optimal alignment. You don’t want those knees to be caving in! 
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• ROSA Partial Knee System: This helps surgeons preserve healthy bone and tissue, leading to faster patient recovery.
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• ROSA Hip System: This robotic system helps surgeons perform total hip replacements, ensuring accurate implant positioning and minimizing complications.

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13. Stereotaxis 

Stereotaxis is a medical technology company specializing in robotic magnetic navigation systems for minimally invasive cardiac procedures.

• Niobe ES Magnetic Navigation System: This advanced platform uses magnetic fields to guide catheters and other devices during cardiac ablation procedures. If there’s one place with little room for error, it’s here. 
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• Precision and control: The Niobe system allows for precise navigation and control of catheters, enabling physicians to reach challenging areas of the heart with minimal risk.
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• Reduced radiation exposure: The Niobe system minimizes the need for fluoroscopy, reducing radiation exposure for patients and medical staff.

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14. Noah Medical 

Noah Medical is a Silicon Valley-based company developing a next-generation robotic bronchoscopy platform for minimally invasive lung biopsies.

• Galaxy System: This innovative platform combines robotics, endoscopic ultrasound (EUS), and electromagnetic navigation to enable precise and safe lung biopsies.
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• Early lung cancer detection: Galaxy aims to improve detection rates by accessing hard-to-reach nodules and lesions with minimal invasiveness.
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• Getting high-res visuals: The system's high-resolution imaging and 3D mapping capabilities give surgeons an incredibly detailed view of lung anatomy. This vastly improves diagnostic accuracy and treatment planning.

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FAQs

What types of robots are used in surgery? 

Surgical robots come in many forms, from systems like the da Vinci, which help surgeons with minimally invasive procedures, to those like the CyberKnife, which specializes in targeted radiation therapy.

What are the biggest medical robotics companies?

Intuitive Surgical holds the crown, dominating the market with its widely adopted da Vinci system.

Who is leading the market in robotic-assisted surgery? 

While Intuitive Surgical holds the largest market share, other companies like Stryker, Medtronic, and Johnson & Johnson are quickly gaining ground. As always, the market continues to shift rapidly. 

What is the most commonly known surgical robot? 

The da Vinci Surgical System from Intuitive Surgical is arguably the most well-known surgical robot, and it has a significant presence in hospitals worldwide. But there are others to come, for sure. 

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Summing up

The rise of surgical robotics is breaking new ground in the medical space, and much of it is thanks to these major surgical robotics companies. 

These titans constantly push the boundaries of what's possible in the operating room — and beyond. 

Of course, nothing is stopping them from charting a new course — one with better patient outcomes and safer procedures for all.

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Next steps

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