RCS England responds to NICE’s approval of 11 robot-assisted surgical systems

Ms Nuha Yassin, a consultant colorectal surgeon and Royal College of Surgeons of England Council member, said:
 
“NICE’s approval of 11 cutting-edge robot-assisted surgical (RAS) systems marks a significant step forward in enhancing surgical precision and improving patients' outcomes across the NHS. 
 
“The potential for faster recovery times, reduced complications, and increased access to minimally invasive procedures could transform patient care. NICE’s evaluation helps demonstrate the strong clinical evidence base for these technologies and paves the way for the continued expansion of RAS for orthopaedic procedures, such as knee arthroplasty, as well as in colorectal surgery. 
 
“It remains important that in introducing these new technologies, NHS trusts and surgical teams ensure they are working within the guidelines set out by the Royal College of Surgeons of England, so that they are implemented in the safest way possible for patients.”

“This also requires surgeons to operate within their areas of expertise, collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and evaluate their outcome data.”

ENDS

Notes to editors:

1. The Royal College of Surgeons of England (RCS England) provides world-class education, assessment, and development to 30,000 surgeons, dental professionals, and members of the wider surgical and dental care teams at all stages of their careers. Our vision is to see excellent surgical care for everyone. We do this by setting professional standards, facilitating research, and championing the best outcomes for patients.

2. RCS England has published a guide which provides a broad framework for the safe adoption and sustainable expansion of robotic assisted surgery, including: 

• a structured training pathway for established surgeons, leading to independent practice in robotic-assisted surgery;

• sound governance practices;

• roles and responsibilities of key stakeholders, including regulators, hospitals, surgeons and industry.

The guidance document is available here: Robotic-assisted surgery: A pathway to the future — Royal College of Surgeons (This is due to be updated shortly)

3. RCS England has also published good practice guide on surgical innovation, new techniques and technologies, including the implementation of robot-assisted surgery: RCS sets out new guidance for introducing surgical innovations such as robot-assisted surgery — Royal College of Surgeons.

4. Ms Yassin contributed to the NICE Early Value Assessment (EVA) process as RCS England’s lead for the Future of Surgery,

5. For more information, please contact the press office: telephone: 020 7869 6053/6054/6047; email: pressoffice@rcseng.ac.uk; out-of-hours media enquiries: 0207 869 6056.