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From Scalpels to Software: The Robotic Surgery Market

Written by Kaleido | May 06, 2024

Investors eyeing the global surgical robotics market should take a closer look, as this market is expected to experience significant growth in the years to come!

Forecasts predict an impressive increase of USD 7,892.61 million in this market from 2022 to 2027, representing a compounded annual growth rate (CAGR) of 20.67%.

Already today, robots carry out over 14 million procedures each year. And as healthcare providers increasingly recognize the efficiency and precision of robotic-assisted procedures, the adoption of such technology continues to rise.


Source: Technavio, 2023

Psst... Be sure to read through to the end of the article, where we present a simple way for investors to tap into healthcare innovations.

What is the Purpose of Surgical Robotics?

Surgical robots are highly advanced medical tools designed to assist surgeons in performing a wide range of surgical procedures with unparalleled precision, control, and adaptability.

These robots are employed across various surgical specialties, including urology, gynecology, general surgery, cardiovascular surgery, and orthopedics.

Why Do We Need Surgical Robots When We Have Skilled Doctors?

Well, let's break it down.

Hospitals worldwide are turning to surgical robots because they offer something human hands can't quite match: incredible precision.

Unlike human hands, which have limitations in reach and dexterity, robotic arms can access hard-to-reach areas and perform maneuvers that would be otherwise impossible.

Surgical robots are designed to reduce the strain on surgeons by providing better control over their tools and eliminating hand tremors. This can generally result in less bleeding, reduced pain, shorter hospital stays, and quicker recovery times for patients.

For example, in cardiac surgery, robotic arms can navigate around the ribs with greater ease, allowing surgeons to perform complex procedures with minimal trauma to the patient.

Now, you might be wondering: "Are the robots alone in performing the surgery?"

The answer is no.

Think of them more as incredibly precise assistants that help surgeons by executing their commands with high accuracy. While the robots handle the instruments, it is still the surgeon's expertise and strategic guidance that direct every critical aspect of the operation.

Can We Really Rely on Surgical Robots?

Robots have transformed the field of surgery since they first appeared on the scene.

Today, they can be seen in hospitals worldwide. Among the most well-known surgical robots is the Da Vinci robot, which is used in over 1.5 million surgeries annually, as reported by its maker, California-based Intuitive.

While surgical robots offer remarkable benefits like exceptional precision and the ability to work tirelessly, they also come with some risks.

There are concerns that issues like sudden shutdowns or system errors during procedures could pose safety risks, potentially causing injury or even death. Despite these potential drawbacks, the general consensus is that surgical robots usually enhance surgical outcomes.

In a study spanning nine hospitals in the UK, 338 patients diagnosed with non-metastatic bladder cancer were divided randomly into two groups:

  • One group of 169 patients underwent robot-assisted radical cystectomy, which involves the removal of the bladder followed by intracorporeal reconstruction using a portion of the bowel to create a new bladder.
  • The other group of 169 patients underwent open radical cystectomy.

The main objective of the trial was to reduce the length of the hospital stay following surgery. On average, patients in the robot-assisted group remained hospitalized for eight days, compared to ten days for those in the open surgery group, reflecting a 20% reduction in hospitalization time for the robot-assisted approach.

Additionally, the rate of readmission to the hospital within 90 days of surgery was significantly lower in the robot-assisted group, with 21% of patients requiring readmission compared to 32% in the open surgery group.

Now all this translates to some significant benefits: shorter hospital stays and faster recovery times.

Are There Other Downsides to Robotic Surgery?

Yes. Robotic surgery, while cutting-edge, often comes with a hefty price tag.

According to the American Congress of Obstetricians and Gynecologists, if all hysterectomies in the US were performed robotically, it would add nearly a billion dollars annually to healthcare costs.

Just the robotic system alone ranges from 1.5 to 2.5 million dollars!

In other words, while robots bring futuristic technology to the operating room, they also bring a hefty bill.

Therefore, many experts believe that robotic surgery should be reserved for complex cases and not used for every procedure.

These high costs currently act as a brake on the expansion of the medical robot market.

How Can I Invest in the Market for Surgical Robotics?

The world of surgical robotics is not only fascinating but also potentially lucrative for you as an investor.

Despite rapid market growth in recent years, robots still have low penetration in the surgery industry, suggesting significant potential for early investors as adoption increases.

For those interested in public companies within this market, here are 3 interesting companies to consider:

  • Intuitive: Renowned for their pioneering Da Vinci systems, Intuitive has shown impressive growth in their procedures over the last years.
  • Stryker: Stryker is revolutionizing knee and hip replacement surgeries with their Mako robotic arms. Their technology ensures meticulously planned and executed operations.
  • Boston Scientific: Boston Scientific specializes in creating medical devices for surgical use, including robotics that improve accuracy and results in complex procedures. They are recognized for their innovative technologies that make surgeries less invasive.

Other exciting companies to consider include: Zimmer Biomet, Smith+Nephew, Globus Medical, Medtronic, and Johnson & Johnson.

For those more interested in private investments, this sector also offers considerable opportunities.

However, it's important to note that these investments generally require substantial initial capital due to the complex technology and extended adoption cycle characteristic of this market.

While these characteristics might scare off some investors, they are also the reason why significant long-term benefits can be realized in this market.

➕ An extra plus: investing in the market for robotic surgery offers not only the potential of attractive returns but also contributes to scientific advancements that improve lives!

When’s the Best Time to Invest in Health Innovation?

Right Now.

The anticipated growth in the robotic surgery market aligns with the major trend it is a part of: longevity.

Investing in longevity means embracing new technologies and solutions that could extend the healthy years of our lives.

This can be anything from robotic surgery to innovative diagnostics, fitness technology, healthy food tech, or other health related fields.

The longevity market is rapidly expanding, projected to reach trillions of dollars in the future. Therefore, now is a perfect time to get involved in the longevity revolution.

How Can Kaleido Help?

With Kaleido Privatbank AG, you can tap into the fast-growing longevity megatrend with a portfolio tailored specifically to your needs.

This is your easy entry into the world of longevity for investors!

Our innovative investment solution offers comprehensive access to both public and private opportunities via a flexible Kaleido mandate.

We collaborate with top-tier venture capital and private equity experts to bring you the most exciting investment options in this dynamic sector.

Interested in Getting Started?

Why not set up a casual chat with our CIO and longevity expert, Gregory Hung?

He can introduce you to a range of opportunities that align with your investment goals and help you capitalize on the promising prospects in healthcare innovation.

Learn more and schedule your call here.

 

Contact Gregory Hung to learn more!

Disclaimer: This piece of information is for marketing and entertainment purposes only and should not be taken as an investment recommendation. Remember that all investments involve risk. Please read our full Marketing Disclaimer here.