Robotic-assisted surgery is already being used in many types of operations and has been shown to have benefits including reduced blood loss and pain, more efficient use of anaesthetics and shorter hospital stays. 

RCS England said it has the potential to give greater precision during operations; result in fewer blood transfusions; free up hospital beds; increase patient satisfaction, and reduce recovery time.

However, despite the rapid growth in its usage, there are no formal processes for providing robotic training in the UK or Europe, or expanding its use in hospitals. Unregulated adoption also has the potential to lead to varied accessibility, outcomes and could increase the risk of patient harm.

In a new guide, 'Robotic assisted surgery - A pathway to the future', RCS England looks at the potential future application of robotics and makes recommendations to improve governance practices in order to expand the safe adoption of robotic surgery in...