Millions more individuals are expected to undergo robotic surgery over the next decade as the NHS aims to decrease the lengthy waiting list for hospital treatment. The move signifies an expansion in the frequency where surgeons use robots when treating patients for various conditions such as cancer, hysterectomies, joint replacements, and during medical emergencies. According to NHS England’s chief executive, Sir Jim Mackey, the number of patients undergoing robot-assisted surgery will increase from 70,000 to 500,000 per year by 2035. Robotic surgery not only speeds up the procedure count but also ensures better outcomes, faster recoveries, and shorter hospital stays. Not only does it benefit patients, but it can also alleviate pressure on services and reduce waiting times. Moreover, it makes complex operations less physically demanding for surgeons, allowing more surgeries to be undertaken daily. The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence approved the use of robots in various types of operations to take place in hospitals around England. However, expert surgeons argue that increased capital funding is required to make this plan a reality.
Source: https://www.theguardian.com/society/2025/jun/11/millions-more-to-have-robotic-surgery-in-nhs-plan-to-cut-waiting-lists
