Robots approved to do NHS ops on tumours and hips

ROBOTIC systems that can help remove tumours or replace a knee have been approved for NHS use — and could transform care for thousands of patients.

- By Storm Newton

The technology may lead to shorter hospital stays, faster recoveries and less risk of complications, officials claim.

The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence early value assessment programme backed 11 systems.

Some allow surgeons to operate using mechanical arms controlled from a console, while others are handheld.