Robotic-Assisted Surgery
Transforming patient care with robotic-assisted surgery
Surgical practice is evolving rapidly and at the forefront of this transformation is robotic-assisted and minimally invasive surgery. These technologies are reshaping how we deliver care, enhancing precision, reducing recovery times and improving patient outcomes.
Building on the success of laparoscopic and other minimally invasive techniques, we are committed to supporting the safe and effective integration of robotic-assisted surgery into mainstream surgical practice across the UK.
Through our Future of Surgery programme and in partnership with Intuitive Surgical, we are advancing research, education and policy to ensure that surgeons and surgical teams are equipped to lead this change.
Advancing research
We are working to strengthen the evidence base for robotic-assisted and minimally invasive surgery. Our initiatives include:
- conducting systematic reviews and flagship research programmes;
- providing pump-priming grants to support early-stage research;
- connecting researchers with funders and collaborators;
- advocating for increased investment in surgical innovation.
We are committed to fostering a research environment that supports high-quality, clinically relevant studies to inform best practice.
Supporting surgical training
We are dedicated to ensuring that surgeons and the wider surgical care team have access to high-quality training in robotic-assisted and minimally invasive techniques. Our work includes:
- accrediting training programmes and Senior Clinical Fellowships that meet RCS England standards;
- assuring the quality of existing training across the UK;
- embedding robotics and digital surgery into our courses;
- collaborating with stakeholders to expand access to training opportunities.
Our goal is to ensure that training keeps pace with technological advances and supports lifelong learning.
Shaping policy
We work closely with policymakers and professional bodies to ensure that the benefits of robotic-assisted surgery are recognised and supported at all levels of the healthcare system.
Recent contributions include:
- input into NHS England and GIRFT’s guidance on coordinated implementation of robotic-assisted surgery;
- engagement with NICE’s early value assessments for robotic-assisted procedures in soft tissue and orthopaedics;
- publication of our own good practice guide: Robotic-assisted surgery: A pathway to the future.
We will continue to collaborate with GIRFT, NICE and more to take forward these recommendations.
Connecting the surgical community
The RCS England RADAR network brings together surgeons, academics, NHS leaders, industry partners and other stakeholders to share knowledge and shape the future of robotic-assisted surgery.
This collaborative platform fosters innovation, supports professional development and ensures that the surgical community remains at the forefront of this rapidly evolving field.
Get involved
We strive to maximise awareness among key healthcare stakeholders and the public about the potential of robotic-assisted and minimally invasive surgery to improve patient care. Our initiatives include developing robotics policy and providing valuable information for patients.
To learn more or to join the Robotics and Digital Surgery networks, contact us below.
