Latest news with #surgicalrobot
Fox News
19-07-2025
- Health
- Fox News
AI robot performs gallbladder surgery autonomously
Robots trained by watching expert surgeons can now perform complex operations with little human help. This breakthrough is happening right now. For the first time, an autonomous surgical robot completed a key phase of gallbladder removal on a lifelike patient. It worked independently and adapted in real time to unexpected challenges. Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy ReportGet my best tech tips, urgent security alerts and exclusive deals delivered straight to your inbox. Plus, you'll get instant access to my Ultimate Scam Survival Guide — free when you join my Unlike previous surgical robots that followed rigid, pre-programmed instructions, the new system, named Surgical Robot Transformer-Hierarchy (SRT-H), was trained using hours of surgery videos. Researchers at Johns Hopkins University fed the robot visual data and captions describing each step of the procedure. This approach allowed SRT-H to learn the sequence and nuances of gallbladder surgery, including identifying ducts and arteries, placing clips and making precise cuts. What sets SRT-H apart is its ability to respond to voice commands from the surgical team. For example, the robot can understand instructions like "grab the gallbladder head" or "move the left arm a bit to the left." This interactive feedback loop enables the robot to learn and self-correct, much like a surgical resident guided by a mentor. During trials, SRT-H demonstrated remarkable adaptability. It performed the 17-step gallbladder removal process with 100% accuracy, even when researchers altered its starting position or changed the appearance of tissues using blood-like dyes. The robot's performance matched that of skilled human surgeons, handling unexpected scenarios with composure and precision. "This advancement moves us from robots that can execute specific surgical tasks to robots that truly understand surgical procedures," said Axel Krieger, lead researcher at Johns Hopkins University. Traditional surgical robots have made procedures less invasive, but they still rely heavily on human control. The autonomous surgical robot represents a step forward by combining mechanical precision with the ability to adapt and make decisions in real time. This technology could one day lead to fully autonomous surgeries, potentially improving outcomes and expanding access to high-quality surgical care worldwide. The success of SRT-H in gallbladder surgery is just the beginning. Researchers plan to train the robot on a wider range of procedures and further enhance its capabilities. The ultimate goal is a robot that can perform entire surgeries autonomously, adapting to the unique anatomy and challenges of each patient. If you've ever faced a long wait for surgery or worried about human error in the operating room, this breakthrough could directly affect your care. Autonomous surgical robots like SRT-H promise faster procedures, fewer complications and better access, especially in rural or underserved areas. With their ability to learn from real surgeries and adjust in real time, these robots could support overworked surgical teams and help reduce burnout. For patients, that means more consistent outcomes and shorter recovery times. While fully autonomous surgery isn't available in U.S. hospitals just yet, the technology is moving fast. What happened in a research lab today could be part of your next hospital visit sooner than you think. The arrival of autonomous surgical robots is changing medicine fast. By combining artificial intelligence, machine learning and real-time feedback, these robots are ready to transform the operating room. As this technology improves, the gap between human skill and robotic precision will continue to shrink. This shift promises a future where surgery is safer and more efficient than ever before. If a robot can perform surgery with the skill of a top surgeon, would you trust an AI machine to operate on you or your loved ones? Let us know by writing us at Sign up for my FREE CyberGuy ReportGet my best tech tips, urgent security alerts and exclusive deals delivered straight to your inbox. Plus, you'll get instant access to my Ultimate Scam Survival Guide — free when you join my Copyright 2025 All rights reserved.
Globe and Mail
07-07-2025
- Business
- Globe and Mail
ISRG da Vinci 5 Gets European Nod: Will it Boost the Stock's Prospect?
Intuitive Surgical ISRG received the CE-mark for its latest surgical robot system, da Vinci 5, earlier this month. This fifth-generation system includes over 150 enhancements such as Force Feedback technology, an ergonomic surgeon console, improved 3D vision and greater computing power, aimed at improving surgical outcomes and operational efficiency. It is cleared for minimally invasive endoscopic procedures across adult and pediatric patients in specialties including urologic, gynecologic, general laparoscopic, abdominopelvic and thoracoscopic surgeries. The da Vinci 5's approval in Europe marks a major regulatory step, expanding the clinical reach of Intuitive Surgical's most advanced surgical platform to date. Building on the foundation of the da Vinci Xi Surgical System, the da Vinci 5 introduces enhanced integration, refined ergonomics, and next-generation capabilities to support surgeon precision and patient outcomes. This expansion enhances Intuitive Surgical's competitive moat in robotic-assisted surgery while aligning with hospital needs for surgical efficiency, workforce sustainability and value-based care. Several other companies, including Medtronic MDT and Stryker SYK, also commercialize surgical robots in Europe. However, intelligent computing is likely to be a key differentiator, with da Vinci 5 offering 10,000 times more processing power than earlier generations. The system integrates advanced sensors and software that deliver real-time, actionable insights to help surgeons quantify and improve their performance. This data-driven approach supports continuous improvement and performance benchmarking, particularly valuable as hospital systems seek to optimize surgical efficiency and outcomes. Favorable Industry Prospects for ISRG Per a report by Grand View Research, the surgical robots market size in Europe was estimated at $1.89 billion in 2024 and is projected to reach $3.31 billion by 2030, registering a CAGR of 10.3% from 2025 to 2030. Industry growth is driven by technological innovation, increasing investments from global and regional players, and a rise in chronic conditions and joint replacement procedures. Da Vinci 5 Shows Strong Adoption in the United States In the first quarter of 2025, the adoption of Intuitive Surgical's da Vinci 5 system in the United States demonstrated strong early momentum. Of the 367 da Vinci systems placed globally during the quarter, 147 were da Vinci 5 units, reflecting solid U.S. demand. More than 32,000 procedures were performed using da Vinci 5, showcasing broad multidisciplinary uptake. Notably, force feedback instruments — a hallmark of the latest device — were associated with significant clinical benefits, including faster bowel recovery post-nephrectomy and improved suturing proficiency among novice surgeons. Additionally, 'case insight' tools were applied in over 22,000 da Vinci 5 procedures, offering real-time analytics and performance feedback. Estimate Revision Trend of ISRG The Zacks Consensus Estimate for Intuitive Surgical for 2025 and 2026 has moved southwards by 1.6% and 3.4%, respectively, to an earnings per share of $7.84 and $9.05 over the past 90 days. The negative estimate revision reflects rising costs for the company as it continues to launch the latest da Vinci 5 in the United States and other geographies amid macro headwinds like supply constraints. ISRG's Performance in Europe Intuitive Surgical delivered solid performance in Europe during the first quarter of 2025, placing 88 earlier versions of da Vinci systems, up from 84 in the prior year. These systems have been widely used in Europe, with more than 410,000 procedures performed in 2024 alone. Despite macroeconomic pressures and constrained healthcare budgets in key markets like Germany and the United Kingdom, procedure growth remained strong, supported by increased utilization of existing systems. While capital constraints persist, Intuitive's focus on training and operational optimization continues to support robust procedural and commercial momentum. The launch of the latest da Vinci system is likely to drive adoption higher in Europe, backed by ISRG's market-leading position in the region. However, we expect ISRG to face competition from rival surgical robots. Medtronic's Hugo is reported to be 20-25% less expensive than da Vinci at some European centers, with modular arms offering greater flexibility for certain abdominal procedures. However, some users note a steeper learning curve and early software bugs in MDT's Hugo. Meanwhile, Stryker's Hugo leads in orthopedic (joint replacement) robotic surgery and is unlikely to be a direct competitor in soft tissue surgery. Price Performance of ISRG ISRG has gained 18.9% over the past three months compared with the industry 's growth of 14.3%. It has also outperformed its peers like Medtronic and Stryker over this period. While MDT has gained 7.9%, SYK has improved 17.1%. ISRG's Faces Supply and Capital Budget constraints Intuitive Surgical's near-term growth prospects may face headwinds from supply and capital budget constraints. Limited availability of force feedback instruments for the da Vinci 5 system, a key innovation, is delaying broader adoption despite demonstrated clinical benefits and strong demand. The company expects full availability only by late 2025, potentially curbing near-term procedure volume growth and revenue acceleration from premium features. Simultaneously, healthcare capital budget constraints in key markets like Germany, the U.K., and Japan are restraining system placements. Economic pressures and shifting government priorities, such as post-COVID austerity and defense spending in Europe, are prompting hospitals to delay or reprioritize investments in surgical robotics. While ISRG is promoting increased system utilization and flexible leasing models to mitigate these challenges, prolonged constraints may dampen global system expansion. Together, these factors could limit the pace of da Vinci 5's scaling and affect ISRG's ability to fully capitalize on its innovation pipeline in 2025. ISRG Stock More Expensive Than Industry Intuitive Surgical is currently trading at a forward 12-month price-to-earnings multiple of 64.32X, significantly higher than the industry average of 28.81X. However, the current valuation is lower than its five-year median of 71.52X. The company currently carries a Zacks Value Score of 'D.' ISRG: A Long-Term Buy Despite near-term cost pressures and macroeconomic headwinds, Intuitive Surgical remains a compelling long-term investment. The CE mark approval of the da Vinci 5 system opens significant revenue potential in Europe's growing $3.31 billion surgical robotics market. This next-generation platform, offering advanced computing power, force feedback, and intelligent analytics, is well-positioned to meet rising demand for minimally invasive, value-based care. Early U.S. adoption trends indicate strong clinician confidence, which is likely to be mirrored in Europe. While supply and capital constraints may temper immediate gains, ISRG's dominant market share, robust clinical backing, and strategic focus on training, utilization, and operational efficiency ensure resilience. Though the valuation appears premium, it reflects ISRG's innovation leadership and long-term growth prospects. Intuitive Surgical currently carries a Zacks Rank #2 (Buy). You can see the complete list of today's Zacks #1 Rank (Strong Buy) stocks here. Only $1 to See All Zacks' Buys and Sells We're not kidding. Several years ago, we shocked our members by offering them 30-day access to all our picks for the total sum of only $1. No obligation to spend another cent. Thousands have taken advantage of this opportunity. Thousands did not - they thought there must be a catch. Yes, we do have a reason. We want you to get acquainted with our portfolio services like Surprise Trader, Stocks Under $10, Technology Innovators, and more, that closed 256 positions with double- and triple-digit gains in 2024 alone. See Stocks Now >> Medtronic PLC (MDT): Free Stock Analysis Report Stryker Corporation (SYK): Free Stock Analysis Report Intuitive Surgical, Inc. (ISRG): Free Stock Analysis Report
South China Morning Post
26-05-2025
- Business
- South China Morning Post
Hong Kong surgical robot start-up Cornerstone eyes funds to take on da Vinci
Hong Kong surgical robot start-up Cornerstone Robotics, which competes with rival products such as the da Vinci Surgical System, aims to raise more than 500 million yuan (US$70 million) later this year to expand sales and develop new products, according to its chief. Advertisement Since its founding in 2019, the firm had a deliberate strategy to localise parts production, said founder and CEO Samuel Au Kwok-wai. The objective predates the Covid-19 pandemic's supply chain problems and the US-China trade war, he said. 'To build high-quality, safe and reliable surgical robots, my belief was that we needed to source all components domestically,' he said in an exclusive interview on Thursday on the sidelines of the International Forum for Patient Capital in Hong Kong. 'People often talk about supply chain resilience to handle import tariffs between the US and China,' he said at the event, hosted by government-owned Hong Kong Investment Corporation . 'But six years ago, we already decided that we needed to control the entire supply chain.' The company is based in the Hong Kong Science and Technology Park . Its more than 200 engineers work closely with suppliers near its 150,000 sq ft plant in the Longhua district of Shenzhen to custom-build components for its robot systems, which typically have around 13,000 parts, he said. The plant can build about 200 systems a year. Advertisement The strategy had allowed Cornerstone to offer performance 'equivalent to the state-of-the-art' system in the world at 'substantially lower' prices, he said.
