ArrowArtboardCreated with Sketch.Title ChevronTitle ChevronIcon FacebookIcon LinkedinIcon Mail ContactPath LayerIcon MailPositive ArrowIcon Print
Technology

Japanese makers pounce on surgical robot opportunity

As dominant player's patents begin to expire, new technologies are ready to go

Artificial intelligence and robots are expected to enhance endoscopic surgeries in the near future. (Courtesy of National Cancer Center Hospital East) 

TOKYO -- A big opportunity is presenting itself as major patents owned by a maker of surgical robots have begun to expire -- and companies in Japan and elsewhere are already pouncing on it.

The patents are held by Intuitive Surgical of the U.S., which makes the da Vinci surgical system and has so far dominated the market.

Sponsored Content

About Sponsored Content This content was commissioned by Nikkei's Global Business Bureau.

Discover the all new Nikkei Asia app

  • Take your reading anywhere with offline reading functions
  • Never miss a story with breaking news alerts
  • Customize your reading experience

Nikkei Asian Review, now known as Nikkei Asia, will be the voice of the Asian Century.

Celebrate our next chapter
Free access for everyone - Sep. 30

Find out more