Millions to Have Robotic Ops on NHS to Cut Waiting Times

Millions more people will have robotic surgery over the next decade under NHS plans to slash the huge waiting list for hospital treatment.

- Denis Campbell

The move will see a significant expansion in how often surgeons deploy robots when treating people for cancer, hysterectomies and joint replacements as well as in medical emergencies.

The number of patients undergoing robot-assisted surgery is due to rise from 70,000 to 500,000 a year by 2035, the head of the NHS in England will announce today.

"The NHS has pledged to return to shorter elective waiting times by 2029 and we are using every tool at our disposal to ensure patients get the best possible treatment," Sir Jim Mackey, NHS England's chief executive, will say.

"Expanding the use of new and exciting tech such as robotic surgery will play a huge part in this.

"Not only does it speed up the number of procedures the NHS can do, but it also means better outcomes, a faster recovery and shorter hospital stays for patients."