Medtronic Expands AI and Robotics Hub, While Virtuoso Surgical Receives FDA Breakthrough Designation

Medtronic, a leading medical technology company, has announced a significant expansion of its London office, establishing it as the company's largest global digital center for artificial intelligence (AI) and robotics in surgery. Meanwhile, Virtuoso Surgical has received FDA breakthrough device designation for its robotic system designed for bladder lesion removal.

Medtronic's AI and Robotics Expansion in London

Medtronic's expansion in London marks a substantial investment in the future of AI-powered and robotic-assisted surgery. The company has doubled both the size of its office to 25,000 square feet and its London workforce to more than 200 people. This growth builds upon existing local partnerships in the research and design of robotic-assisted surgery capabilities.

The expanded Medtronic Centre of Digital Excellence is set to develop specialized computing and software for hospital operating rooms. The center has already launched hundreds of AI algorithms to assist surgeons in accessing post-surgery analytics. A key feature of the facility is a mock robotic operating theater, allowing on-site testing of new technologies.

The digital technology developed at the center aims to support surgical teams in various aspects of their work, including planning, learning, and collaboration with other experts. One of the most promising capabilities in development is AI-powered decision support for surgeons during real-time operations.

Medtronic's Hugo soft tissue robotic system is currently available in more than 30 countries, including the UK. The company anticipates entering the U.S. market with this system later in its current fiscal year, which concludes in April 2026.

Virtuoso Surgical's FDA Breakthrough Designation

Virtuoso Surgical has achieved a significant milestone with the FDA granting breakthrough device designation to its robotic system for bladder lesion removal using en bloc resection. This technique, which removes the specimen intact, offers improved accuracy in cancer staging and more definitive diagnoses compared to standard bladder tumor resection methods.

While en bloc resection performed manually has shown promise in lowering cancer recurrence, it is a complex procedure for surgeons to master. Virtuoso's robotic system aims to facilitate wider adoption of this technique by simplifying the approach for surgeons.

The Virtuoso system employs needle-sized robotic arms designed to enhance surgeons' dexterity and precision during complex procedures. These manipulators are smaller than other robotic surgical instruments, allowing access to previously unreachable areas of the body.

In May, Virtuoso reported the successful use of its system in bladder lesion excision procedures for six patients during the pilot phase of the Viable trial at The Chinese University of Hong Kong. The FDA's breakthrough device program, which has recognized Virtuoso's technology, is intended to accelerate the development, assessment, and review process for device authorization.