The NHS has been approved to use 11 cutting-edge robotic surgery systems that could transform operations for thousands of NHS patients.
The technology, which is capable of movements more precise than the human hand, has been given the green light by the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (Nice), which provides evidence-based recommendations to the NHS.
So far, five systems for soft tissue procedures have been approved – such as hernia repair, removal of tumours and gallbladder removal – and six for orthopaedic surgery, such as full and partial knee replacement procedures and hip replacements.
The body’s independent committee made the decision after being presented with evidence that the use of robots in surgery enables faster recovery times, shorter hospital stays and a quicker return to work. Patients also reported experiencing less pain and reduced scarring compared with traditional surgery.
Nice said the robots can be used as part of the 11 operations while further evidence...
