Robotic Surgery Abroad: Da Vinci, ROSA, ARTEMIS
Modern medicine has made tremendous strides thanks to robotic technologies, revolutionizing conventional approaches to surgery. Procedures that once required large incisions and lengthy recovery periods are now minimally invasive, extraordinarily precise, and involve shorter rehabilitation times. Robot-assisted surgery has become a symbol of a new medical era, where innovations and high-tech devices help save lives and restore health.
Robot-assisted surgery is particularly widespread in the United States, South Korea, and Germany, each of which boasts unique achievements and approaches to integrating robotic systems into clinical practice. This article provides a detailed overview of the surgeries performed with robots in these countries and highlights their differences and advantages.
A Closer Look at Robotic Systems
Robotic systems used in surgery are complex devices that combine cutting-edge engineering, programming, and medical technologies. They consist of several key components that work together to perform precise and safe procedures.
Key components of robotic systems:
- Surgical console: This is the central part of the system where the surgeon operates. The console is equipped with monitors that display high-resolution 3D images of the surgical field and control tools. Using joysticks and foot pedals, the surgeon controls the robot remotely.
- Robotic arms: These are the main “hands” of the system, which execute the surgeon’s commands. The arms are equipped with tools for cutting, coagulating, suturing tissues, and other manipulations. They have a high degree of freedom and precision, surpassing the capabilities of human hands.
- Visualization system: Visualization plays a crucial role in robot-assisted surgery. A high-resolution camera transmits a three-dimensional real-time image of the surgical field, allowing the surgeon to see minute details that are otherwise invisible to the naked eye.
- Software: This is the “brain” of the system, processing the surgeon’s commands and coordinating the various components. The software can also analyze actions in real time, minimizing the risk of error.
During the procedure, the surgeon operates the system through the console, transmitting commands to the robotic arms. The robot executes them with unparalleled precision, eliminating human factors like hand tremors. These systems enable surgeons to work in complex anatomical regions where maximum accuracy and minimal intervention are essential.
Examples of the Most Popular Robotic Systems:
- Da Vinci Surgical System
One of the most well-known robotic systems worldwide. It is used for procedures in urology, gynecology, cardiothoracic surgery, and general surgery. The Da Vinci system ensures high precision and minimal tissue trauma. - ROSA (Robotized Stereotactic Assistant)
A system designed for neurosurgical and orthopedic procedures. ROSA assists surgeons in performing complex interventions on the brain and spine with minimal risks to the patient. - ARTEMIS
A German innovation used in oncology and urology. ARTEMIS integrates advanced visualization and control technologies, enabling procedures with minimal blood loss and exceptional precision.
Major Areas of Robot-Assisted Surgery
Robot-assisted procedures cover a wide range of medical specialties. However, certain fields stand out where robotic surgery is particularly in demand.
Urology
Robot-assisted surgery is widely used in urology for treating various conditions requiring precise interventions:
- Prostatectomy: Complete removal of the prostate gland in prostate cancer cases. The robot minimizes the risk of nerve damage, preserving urinary and sexual functions.
- Nephrectomy: Partial or complete removal of the kidney for malignant or benign tumors.
- Treatment of urogenital tumors: Procedures on the ureters, bladder, and other organs, including robot-assisted cystectomy.
The U.S. leads in the number of robot-assisted prostatectomies performed, owing to the widespread availability of equipment and the extensive experience of surgeons.
In Germany, although robotic systems are less prevalent than in the U.S., prostate removal procedures using robots are gaining traction, thanks to the high training standards and adoption of new technologies in leading clinics. In South Korea, robot-assisted nephrectomies, even for patients with weakened health, are particularly popular.
Gynecology
Robotic systems facilitate delicate procedures on pelvic organs:
- Myomectomy: Removal of uterine fibroids while preserving healthy tissues, crucial for women planning pregnancy.
- Hysterectomy: Uterus removal for conditions such as cancer and fibroids.
- Endometriosis surgery: Precise removal of affected tissues, significantly reducing recurrence risks.
Cardiac Surgery
Robots make complex heart interventions minimally invasive:
- Correction of congenital heart defects: Such as repairing atrial septal defects.
- Valve surgery: Repair or replacement of mitral or aortic valves through small incisions.
General Surgery
Modern robotic systems enable procedures such as:
- Stomach surgery: Robot-assisted gastrectomy for cancer or other stomach conditions.
- Intestinal surgery: Resection of intestinal sections for tumors or inflammatory diseases.
- Esophageal procedures: Including tumor removal and reflux disease correction.
In the U.S., robot-assisted esophageal surgeries, especially for treating reflux disease or tumors, are considered the gold standard in leading clinics.
In Germany, robots are extensively used for complex intestinal surgeries, including diverticulitis and tumor treatments.
Oncology
Treating malignant tumors is a key area of robotic surgery:
- Prostate cancer: Among the most common robot-assisted surgeries, particularly with the Da Vinci system. In the U.S., robot-assisted prostatectomies are becoming routine. German oncological centers actively adopt this method, while South Korea has adapted it for routine use, even in smaller clinics.
- Breast cancer: In South Korea, robot-assisted breast tumor removal is widely practiced due to its precision and cosmetic benefits.
- Lung cancer: Robot-assisted thoracic surgery has advanced in the U.S., where robots minimize tissue trauma during tumor or lymph node removal.
Hospitality Medservice collaborates with leading global clinics where robotic surgery has reached the highest level of advancement. The service assists in selecting a clinic specializing in the required medical field and provides comprehensive support at all stages of treatment.
Robotic Surgery in United States
The United States is the birthplace of the da Vinci system: it was developed and first introduced into clinical practice right here. According to manufacturer Intuitive Surgical, by the end of 2024 the country had more than 5,800 da Vinci systems installed — over half of the world’s total fleet of such devices — and in 2025 the number of da Vinci procedures in the US grew 15% year over year.
One notable example is Cleveland Clinic medical center in Ohio: here, da Vinci robotic systems are used for ultra-precise mitral valve procedures, while specialists such as Lars Svensson and A. Marc Gillinov perform complex aortic reconstructions and transcatheter valve replacements. According to the U.S. News & World Report ranking, the clinic holds the #1 spot in the US for cardiology and cardiac surgery.
The most in-demand area for robotic surgery in the country is urology. The US leads in the number of robot-assisted prostatectomies performed: such procedures have become the standard of care for prostate cancer, since minimal invasiveness allows more precise preservation of the nerve bundles responsible for urinary and erectile function.
There are also significant results in general surgery and oncology: leading medical centers use robots for operations on the stomach, intestines, and esophagus, as well as for removing liver and pancreatic tumors.
The US also remains a testing ground for clinical trials of new robot models. It is here that later generations of systems are tested (for example, da Vinci 5, which began commercial use in 2024) before the technology reaches the international market.
Robotic Surgery in South Korea
Thanks to government support for innovation and substantial investments in healthcare, South Korea has become a hub for the development of robotic surgeries.
One of South Korea’s key strengths is the wide range of procedures routinely performed using robots. For example, robotic breast cancer surgery has become standard practice here. Robots are used for the most tissue-sparing removal of even complex tumors, helping preserve cosmetic outcomes and significantly shorten recovery time. The breadth of the technology’s application is also confirmed by H+ Yangji Hospital in Seoul, where the da Vinci robot is regularly used in general surgery as well as other specialties.
South Korea has achieved significant success in robotic thyroid surgery. For example, Seoul National University Hospital (SNUH) was the first to develop the endoscopic BABA method for thyroid cancer surgery — an approach through the armpit and chest that allows tumor removal without a single incision on the neck. Unlike other countries, where such procedures are performed relatively rarely, they have become widespread in South Korea, which is especially important for patients concerned about visible scarring after surgery.
Beyond oncology, robotic technology is also actively used in orthopedics. Sarang Plas Hospital in Seoul became the city’s first training center for robotic knee surgery. Robot-assisted joint replacement is performed here using the ROBODOC system, allowing for highly precise implant placement and shorter rehabilitation times.
Another distinctive feature of robotic surgery in South Korea is its accessibility to international patients. The country actively promotes medical tourism, attracting patients from all over the world. A high level of service, relatively affordable prices, and access to treatment using the most advanced technologies make South Korea a popular choice for patients.
Robotic Surgery in Germany
Thanks to strict quality standards, highly skilled physicians, and advanced technical equipment, German clinics offer patients highly effective and safe surgeries using robotic systems.
A key feature of robotic surgery in Germany is the development of its proprietary ARTEMIS robotic system, designed for performing complex procedures. This innovative solution, created by German engineers in collaboration with leading medical centers, enables surgeons to conduct highly precise operations on the heart, abdominal organs, and pelvic organs.
Alongside ARTEMIS, da Vinci is also widely used in the country. At Charité University Hospital, the robot is used for high-precision procedures in neuro-oncology, while at the FKKD clinical complex in Düsseldorf it accounts for up to 90% of all operations. At MEOCLINIC in Berlin, da Vinci robot-assisted prostatectomy has become one of the primary methods for treating prostate cancer.
While the adoption of robotic surgery in Germany is not as extensive as in the United States or South Korea, the country is actively expanding its use of robotic technologies to provide patients with maximum opportunities for effective therapy.
Robotic Surgery Comparison: United States, South Korea, and Germany — Specialties, Cost, and Equipment
| Parameter | USA | South Korea | Germany |
| Main specialties | Urology, gynecology | Oncology, gynecology, general surgery | Urology, general surgery |
| Procedure costs | $20,000-$50,000 | $10,000-$35,000 | €10,000-€25,000 |
| System types | Da Vinci, latest models | Da Vinci, experimental robots | Da Vinci, ARTEMIS |
| Equipment availability | Widely accessible | Broadly available | Limited to major clinics |
Each country excels in robotic surgery with its unique strengths. The United States leads in the number of implemented systems, South Korea impresses with the breadth of robotic applications and their accessibility, while Germany focuses on quality and the development of proprietary technologies. The progress of robotic surgery in these nations demonstrates that the future of medicine is already here, offering patients worldwide access to the most advanced treatment methods.
Frequently Asked Questions
Da Vinci is one of the best-known robot-assisted surgical platforms, widely used in urology, gynecology, general and thoracic surgery. However, robotics is now developing in other fields as well. For example, the ROSA family of systems is used in neurosurgery and orthopedics, helping the surgeon with planning and high-precision positioning of instruments and implants. There are also specialized robotic platforms for joint replacement, spine surgery, bronchoscopy, and other procedures. So the right question isn’t “which robot is best,” but which technology and surgeon are the best fit for a particular operation.
In many cases, yes. Robot-assisted procedures are usually performed through small incisions and allow the surgeon to work with high precision, minimizing damage to surrounding tissue. This can reduce blood loss, postoperative pain, and length of hospital stay compared with open surgery. However, recovery speed depends primarily on the type and extent of the procedure, the diagnosis, and the patient’s age and condition. So the mere fact that a surgical robot is used does not by itself guarantee faster recovery — the benefits of the technology need to be assessed in relation to the specific operation.
A surgical robot does not perform the operation on its own. In most modern robot-assisted systems, the surgeon controls all key actions, while the technology helps improve the precision of movements, enhance visualization, or execute a pre-planned surgical strategy. That’s why the specialist’s experience is critically important. What matters is not just whether a clinic has a modern robotic system, but how many procedures of that specific type the surgeon has performed, their area of specialization, and their outcomes with patients who have a similar diagnosis.
No. Robotic surgery has its own indications and limitations. In some situations it genuinely offers advantages, while in others laparoscopic, endoscopic, or traditional open surgery may be just as effective or even preferable. The decision depends on the diagnosis, the location and extent of the disease, any prior surgeries, the patient’s individual anatomy, and the expected scope of the procedure. The choice of surgical approach should be based on the expected benefit for that specific patient, not simply on the availability of robotic technology.
Relying solely on whether a center has Da Vinci or another modern robotic system is not enough. It’s more important to find out how much the specific surgeon specializes in the required procedure and how often they perform that particular type of operation. Other factors to consider include the medical center’s profile, the surgical team’s experience, operating room equipment, intensive care and postoperative monitoring capabilities, and — for oncology cases — whether a multidisciplinary tumor board and comprehensive cancer care are available.
