Medtronic Expands London AI and Robotics Hub as Virtuoso Robot Gains FDA Breakthrough Designation

Medtronic is expanding its London office into a 25,000 sq. ft. facility, doubling its workforce to over 200 employees, creating its largest global digital center for AI and robotic surgery. The Medtronic Centre of Digital Excellence develops software and AI algorithms for operating rooms, supporting surgeon collaboration, planning, and real-time decision-making. A mock robotic operating theater allows testing of new technologies, while Hugo, Medtronic’s soft tissue robotic system, is sold in over 30 countries and is expected to enter the U.S. market by April 2026.

Separately, Virtuoso Surgical’s robotic system for bladder lesion removal received FDA breakthrough device designation. The robot enables en bloc resection, improving cancer staging and diagnostic accuracy. Its needle-sized manipulators enhance precision and access in difficult areas, aiming to expand adoption of this complex surgical technique. The system was piloted in six patients at The Chinese University of Hong Kong.

28-09-2025