Robotic Surgery

History of Robotic Surgery

The first experiments with robots in surgery began in the 1980s. At that time, systems were developed for remote control of instruments in situations where access to the patient was limited. One of the drivers behind these technologies was the need for operations on astronauts and military personnel in remote locations.

In 2000, the da Vinci system was approved, becoming a symbol of a new era in surgery. It enabled the performance of highly complex procedures with millimeter precision. In recent years, robotic surgery has rapidly advanced, with new models emerging and indications for surgery expanding.

Modern Technologies and Systems

Today, the da Vinci system is the most well-known, but other platforms are also actively developing: Versius, Senhance, Hugo RAS. Each system has its own features, including the number of manipulators, the range of motion of instruments, and visualization capabilities.

Technologies include:

• 3D visualization of the surgical field;

• high-precision robotic manipulators;

• hand tremor filtration systems;

• miniature instruments capable of operating in hard-to-reach areas.

Thanks to continuous innovation, robotic surgery is becoming more accessible and efficient, and the number of procedures performed is growing every year.

Advantages of Robotic Surgery

Efficiency and Precision

Robotic systems allow surgeons to operate with exceptional accuracy. Visualization with 10–20x magnification provides a detailed view of tissues and vessels. This reduces the risk of damage to healthy structures and increases surgical success rates.

Minimized Trauma and Faster Recovery

Smaller incisions reduce blood loss, infection risks, and postoperative pain. Patients return to their normal lives faster, and hospital stays are shorter.

Comparison with Traditional Methods

Unlike open surgery, robotic procedures involve less tissue trauma. Compared to laparoscopy, robotic systems give the surgeon greater freedom of movement and more precise execution of complex maneuvers.

Drawbacks and Limitations

High Cost

The main drawback is the high price of equipment and consumables. The cost of a system reaches several million dollars, and maintenance adds further expenses.

Need for Specialized Training

Working with robotic systems requires special training. The surgeon must master manipulator control and the specifics of each type of procedure. Training takes time and hands-on practice.

Applications of Robotic Surgery

Oncology

Robotic operations allow tumors to be removed with minimal loss of healthy tissue, preserving organ function. This is especially important in procedures involving the pelvic area, head, and neck.

Gynecology

Robots are used in myomectomy, hysterectomy, treatment of endometriosis, and oncogynecological procedures. High precision reduces complication risks and helps preserve reproductive function.

Urology

One of the most common uses is robot-assisted prostatectomy. Operations on the kidneys and bladder are also performed, where maximum preservation of nerve structures is critical.

The Future of Robotic Surgery

Trends and Forecasts

Experts predict that in the coming years robotic surgery will become standard in many areas of medicine. Compact and more affordable systems are being developed, as well as AI-assisted platforms to support surgeons in decision-making.

Technological Development

Future robots are expected to have tactile feedback, enabling surgeons to "feel" tissues during operations. System mobility will improve, and surgeon training will be shortened through VR simulators.

Clinical Cases and Research

Numerous studies confirm that robotic surgery reduces operating time, minimizes blood loss, and improves patients’ quality of life. Large clinics have already accumulated experience from tens of thousands of successful procedures.

Robotic Surgery in Russia

Clinics

In Russia, robotic systems such as da Vinci are being actively introduced into leading medical centers. Today, they are installed in federal clinics, university hospitals, and major private medical facilities. Robotic surgery is most actively developing in Moscow, St. Petersburg, Yekaterinburg, and Novosibirsk.

Among the leading centers performing robot-assisted operations are:

• Moscow Multidisciplinary Clinical Center named after S.P. Botkin — performs a wide range of interventions in urology, gynecology, oncology, and general surgery.

• National Medical and Surgical Center named after N.I. Pirogov — specializes in complex robot-assisted procedures on abdominal organs, the heart, and blood vessels.

• Almazov National Medical Research Center (St. Petersburg) — one of the leaders in the number of robotic operations in cardiac surgery, oncological surgery, and endocrine surgery.

Cost

The price of surgery depends on the type of procedure, clinic, and region. On average, robot-assisted procedures are more expensive than traditional ones, but many patients choose them due to lower complication risks and faster recovery.

In general, the cost of robot-assisted operations starts from $1,000, but the final price depends on the specific type of intervention.

MARUS Assistance

The MARUS service helps international patients arrange treatment in Russia using robotic technologies. We work with leading clinics equipped with modern surgical systems and cooperate with experienced doctors trained abroad.

With us you can:

• choose a clinic specializing in the required surgery;

• get a detailed consultation on the possibilities of robotic surgery in Russia;

• compare conditions, costs, and timelines of procedures;

• obtain a medical invitation and support with visa matters;

• book a surgery date and arrange transfers and accommodation.

MARUS supports patients at every stage — from the first inquiry to returning home — ensuring comfort, safety, and high-quality medical care.