Artificial Intelligence (AI) has emerged as a transformative force in medicine, particularly in the realm of surgery. By integrating machine learning, real-time analytics, and precision robotics, AI-assisted robotic surgery is reshaping the surgical landscape. These systems enhance a surgeon’s capabilities through improved dexterity, visualization, and data-driven decision-making. As hospitals and surgical centers seek to improve patient outcomes while reducing costs and complications, robotic surgery systems with embedded AI are becoming increasingly popular.

This article provides a comparative overview of the leading AI-assisted robotic surgery platforms available or in development, highlighting their core features, AI integration, and clinical applications.

1. Intuitive Surgical – da Vinci Xi

Market Leadership and Adoption
Intuitive Surgical’s da Vinci system is the most widely adopted surgical robot in the world, with over 7,500 installations and millions of procedures performed globally. Since its FDA approval in 2000, it has become the benchmark for robotic surgery.

Core Features

• High-definition 3D visualization
• Tremor filtration and motion scaling
• EndoWrist instruments with seven degrees of freedom

AI Integration
While da Vinci excels in mechanical precision and surgeon ergonomics, its AI capabilities are relatively limited compared to newer systems. AI-driven features are primarily limited to postoperative analytics and training modules rather than real-time intraoperative support.

Clinical Use Cases

• Urology (e.g., prostatectomy)
• Gynecology (e.g., hysterectomy)
• General surgery (e.g., hernia repair)

Limitations

• High capital and maintenance costs
• Proprietary instrumentation
• Limited real-time AI assistance during surgery

2. Medtronic – Hugo™ RAS System

Overview
Medtronic, a global leader in medical devices, has entered the robotic surgery market with the Hugo RAS system. Designed for global scalability, Hugo focuses on affordability and cloud-connected analytics.

Core Features

• Modular robotic arms for increased OR flexibility
• Cloud-based video recording and analytics
• Compact design for smaller surgical spaces

AI Integration
Hugo emphasizes AI through video analytics and integration with Medtronic’s broader AI and data ecosystem. The system can collect and analyze intraoperative video data to provide insights into surgical efficiency and outcomes.

Clinical Use Cases

• General surgery
• Urology
• Gynecology

Competitive Edge

• Lower cost of ownership
• Global scalability, especially in emerging markets
• Integration with AI-enhanced Medtronic tools

3. CMR Surgical – Versius

Overview
UK-based CMR Surgical developed the Versius system with a focus on flexibility, portability, and ease of adoption in diverse surgical environments. Versius has been deployed in Europe, Asia, and the Middle East.

Core Features

• Individual portable robotic arms
• Compact console with touchscreen controls
• 3D vision and haptic feedback

AI Integration
Versius incorporates machine learning algorithms to collect performance data and provide feedback for surgical training and quality improvement. AI features are focused more on post-procedure analysis rather than intraoperative guidance.

Clinical Use Cases

• Colorectal surgery
• Hernia repair
• Thoracic and gynecologic procedures

Strengths

• Portability and ease of setup
• Learning platform for surgical education
• Lower cost compared to da Vinci

4. Asensus Surgical – Senhance® Surgical System

Overview
Formerly known as TransEnterix, Asensus Surgical’s Senhance system is designed around the concept of “Augmented Intelligence.” It serves as a digital surgical assistant that enhances, rather than replaces, the surgeon’s capabilities.

Core Features

• Eye-tracking camera control
• Haptic feedback for tactile sensation
• Fully reusable instruments to reduce cost

AI Integration
Senhance includes real-time data analytics and intraoperative guidance tools. AI is used to detect patterns, suggest actions, and provide feedback during surgery. It is one of the few systems to offer active AI decision support during procedures.

Clinical Use Cases

• General surgery
• Colorectal surgery
• Gynecology and urology

Competitive Advantages

• Augmented Intelligence capabilities
• Reusable instruments reduce procedural cost
• Real-time feedback and analytics

5. Johnson & Johnson + Verily – Ottava (in development)

Overview
Ottava is a collaborative effort between Johnson & Johnson’s Ethicon division and Alphabet’s Verily. Although still in development, Ottava promises to be a disruptive entrant in robotic surgery.

Planned Features

• Six-arm configuration integrated directly into the OR table
• AI-powered imaging and analytics
• Real-time adaptive learning algorithms

AI Potential
Ottava is being designed with AI as a foundational element. It aims to use machine learning to guide surgical planning, enhance visualization, and adapt techniques in real time.

Anticipated Strengths

• Deep AI integration from development stage
• Seamless OR integration
• Backing of major players in healthcare and AI

Limitations

• Not yet FDA-approved
• Commercial availability projected beyond 2025

Comparative Summary

Future Outlook

AI-assisted robotic surgery is poised to grow significantly in the next decade. Key trends to watch include:

• Greater AI autonomy: Systems will evolve from assistive to semi-autonomous.
• Integration with digital twins: Personalized simulations based on patient-specific data.
• Cloud-connected analytics: Real-time benchmarking of procedures worldwide.
• Expanded access: Affordable systems like Versius and Hugo aim to bring robotics to underserved regions.

As AI matures, it will not replace surgeons but become a vital partner—enhancing safety, precision, and efficiency. For healthcare systems looking to invest in robotic surgery, understanding each platform’s strengths and limitations is crucial for aligning with clinical goals and operational constraints.