Intuitive Surgical Expands da Vinci Robot Use in Cardiac and Ambulatory Surgery

Intuitive Surgical is positioning its da Vinci robotic systems for growth in cardiac surgery and ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs). The FDA recently cleared several cardiac procedures for the da Vinci 5 robot, allowing the company to expand in the specialty. A measured rollout is planned to support surgeon training and adoption. The current clearance covers instruments without force feedback, with cardiac-specific tools and force feedback integration in development.

Outside the U.S., the da Vinci 5 already has cardiac clearance in Korea, and approvals are being pursued in Europe and other regions.

Intuitive is also targeting ASC expansion, focusing on high-volume centers using refurbished da Vinci Xi systems. Typical procedures include gallbladder, hernia, and gynecologic surgeries. Worldwide da Vinci procedures rose 18% in 2025, with a forecasted growth of 13–15% in 2026, accounting for regulatory and reimbursement uncertainties in the U.S. and abroad.

26-01-2026