The robotics market is currently in a rapid state of expansion. (Credit: IDTechEx)

The robotic surgery market is currently in a rapid state of expansion. It has welcomed dozens of new companies in the last decade, and the range of technologies, uses, and applications of robotic surgery widens with each new entrant. Investments in companies operating in this space have skyrocketed since 2016, recording an increase of over 300 percent in three years, and total investment to date has reached $1.36 billion.

General surgery is perhaps the best known aspect of robotic surgery due to the presence of Intuitive Surgical, the most well-known surgical robot company, in this space. Intuitive Surgical’s control on the market has forced the diversification of surgical robots as companies are keen to set themselves apart. There are multiple sectors within general surgery in which the company is not active, and other manufacturers have targeted in order to distinguish themselves and their technology.

Robotic systems are increasingly being used to facilitate and optimize the positioning of instruments and tools during surgery. They have proven value in orthopedic and neurosurgery procedures and are being explored as means to improve laser therapy and biopsy outcomes as well. These systems facilitate operating room workflows by ensuring that surgical tools are inserted at the appropriate angle and depth. The level of precision required often can't be achieved by humans, who are prone to involuntary tremors.

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