Reflecting on 2024: Top 10 Robotic Surgery Milestones

Robotic surgery has seen an unprecedented rise in innovation and adoption throughout 2024. From transformative technological breakthroughs to record-setting surgeries, the field has continued to redefine healthcare practices globally. Whether improving precision in minimally invasive procedures or expanding access through tele-surgery, this year’s achievements underscore the immense potential of robotic systems in modern medicine. Let’s dive into the top 10 highlights of 2024, where every milestone has brought us closer to a future where advanced robotics revolutionize patient care.

1. First Fully Robotic Double Lung Transplant (October 2024)

NYU Langone Health made history in October 2024 by performing the world's first fully robotic double lung transplant. The surgery was led by Dr. Stephanie Chang, using the da Vinci Xi robotic system to successfully transplant lungs into a 57-year-old patient, Cheryl Mehrkar, who had end-stage COPD. This minimally invasive approach involved small incisions between the ribs, avoiding the need for a large chest opening. The reduced trauma from the surgery allowed Mehrkar to recover faster than patients undergoing traditional transplants, significantly improving her quality of life. This groundbreaking procedure demonstrates the increasing potential of robotic systems in complex organ transplants, paving the way for future innovations.

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2. Introduction of the da Vinci 5 Surgical System (March 2024)

In March 2024, Intuitive Surgical introduced the da Vinci 5, a next-generation robotic surgery platform that revolutionized minimally invasive procedures. This system incorporates enhanced 3D-HD imaging and cutting-edge Force Feedback technology, allowing surgeons to “feel” the tissues they are working on. Clinical trials at Cleveland Clinic demonstrated its effectiveness in urological and gynecological surgeries, showing reduced operating times and improved outcomes. Additionally, its compact design reduced setup times, making it more accessible for smaller hospitals. The da Vinci 5 is now deployed in over 40 countries, transforming surgical precision and accessibility.

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4. Symani Surgical System Gains First FDA Approval for Microsurgery (April 2024)

In April 2024, the Symani Surgical System, developed by Medical Microinstruments (MMI), became the first FDA-approved robot for microsurgery. This system features wristed robotic arms with seven degrees of flexibility, designed to mitigate human hand tremors during delicate operations. The Symani system has already completed nearly 1,000 surgeries across 17 procedures in Europe, demonstrating its effectiveness in enhancing surgical precision. MMI is now developing an AI-powered version to perform recurring tasks, such as tying arteries post-operation, further advancing the capabilities of surgical robots. 

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5. Acquisition of Asensus Surgical by Karl Storz (August 2024)

Karl Storz announced its strategic acquisition of Asensus Surgical in August 2024, a move that reshaped the landscape of robotic surgery. Asensus’s flagship product, the Senhance Surgical System, is renowned for its eye-tracking camera controls and haptic feedback, which improve surgeon precision. Combining this technology with Karl Storz’s expertise in endoscopy has created a powerhouse in minimally invasive surgery. The partnership has already demonstrated a 15% improvement in operating times for gastrointestinal procedures, as seen in trials at the University of California, Irvine. The acquisition signals Karl Storz’s commitment to leading the robotic surgery market with innovative, patient-focused solutions.

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6. Development of Microrobots for Targeted Drug Delivery (December 2024)

In December 2024, Caltech researchers introduced bioresorbable acoustic microrobots (BAM), a groundbreaking innovation for targeted drug delivery. These tiny hydrogel-based robots can navigate through biofluids to deliver therapeutics directly to tumors, guided by external magnetic fields. In preclinical trials, the robots significantly reduced bladder tumor sizes in mice by delivering drugs more precisely than traditional methods. Designed to dissolve safely after completing their task, the robots also feature bubbles for ultrasound imaging, enabling real-time tracking and control. This innovation overcomes challenges in microrobotics, such as movement in complex biofluids and biocompatibility, marking a major step toward human clinical applications in precision medicine.

📖 Read more here. 

7. Robotic Surgery in Pediatric Care (May 2024)

In August 2024, UK-based CMR Surgical launched its first multicenter clinical trial to evaluate the safety and efficacy of its Versius robotic system in pediatric surgery. The study, involving 150 participants under 18 years of age, focuses on urological procedures and will monitor surgical outcomes for up to one year. Conducted across three NHS sites—Southampton Children’s Hospital, Royal Manchester Children’s Hospital, and Evelina London Children’s Hospital—the trial represents a significant step toward expanding robotic surgery in pediatric care. Versius, designed for minimally invasive surgery through small incisions, aims to reduce blood loss, postoperative pain, and recovery time for young patients. The trial follows CMR Surgical’s recent $165 million funding round in 2023 to advance the development of its innovative robotic system. This initiative underscores the growing adoption of robotic technologies in healthcare, particularly for improving outcomes in vulnerable patient populations.

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8. Toumai’s “World Tour” of 5G Robotic Tele-Surgery (February 2024)

February 2024 saw the Toumai robotic system accomplish a groundbreaking “world tour” of tele-surgery. The robot conducted surgeries across the Atlantic (12,400 kilometers) and Pacific (13,000 kilometers), showcasing its adaptability and precision. Led by Professor Vipul Patel and Dr. Moschovas, the surgeries demonstrated flawless performance despite relying solely on 5G connections. Tasks like suturing and dissection were performed without delays, marking a major step forward in remote surgery. These achievements highlight Toumai’s potential to bring world-class healthcare to remote and underserved areas.

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9. Expansion of Robotic Bronchoscopy (October 2024)

Robotic-assisted bronchoscopy made significant progress in 2024, improving the diagnosis of small and peripheral lung lesions. At the CHEST Annual Meeting, a multicenter study of the MONARCH™ Platform by Auris Health reported a diagnostic yield of 63.8% and a low adverse event rate of 3.8% among 679 patients. The study highlighted the system’s effectiveness in locating and diagnosing solid nodules, with sensitivity for malignancy reaching 81.8% at 12 months. Intuitive's Ion system also advanced lung cancer diagnostics, utilizing cone-beam CT to improve precision in targeting deep lung nodules. Together, these platforms are transforming lung cancer care by enabling earlier and more accurate diagnoses in diverse clinical settings.

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10. J&J MedTech and NVIDIA Partner to Scale AI in Surgery (March 2024)

This year, Johnson & Johnson MedTech announced a partnership with NVIDIA to accelerate AI adoption in surgical robotics and digital operating rooms. The collaboration aims to provide real-time analysis and secure, scalable AI-powered solutions that enhance surgical decision-making, education, and collaboration. Using NVIDIA’s IGX edge computing and Holoscan AI platforms, the partnership supports localized data processing in the OR, reducing the need for data transfer and enabling ultra-low latency for critical applications.

By integrating AI into its extensive surgical technologies portfolio, Johnson & Johnson MedTech seeks to create a more connected and personalized surgical experience. The open ecosystem enabled by NVIDIA’s solutions promises to expand innovation, streamline the deployment of AI-powered applications, and improve clinical decision-making, all with the ultimate goal of advancing patient care.

📖 Read more here.

Why Choose R2 Surgical?

At R2 Surgical, we provide hospitals and clinics with affordable access to pre-owned surgical robots, such as the da Vinci Si and Xi systems. Our global reach, spanning 11 countries, ensures you receive the training, support, and instruments needed to succeed in robotic surgery. Whether equipping a new robotics program or expanding an existing one, we offer expert solutions to make cutting-edge technology accessible worldwide.

Let R2 Surgical help you revolutionize patient care without breaking your budget. Contact us today!