Image of a Da Vinci Robot, supplied by Institute Surgical

Pluto, the surgical robot, made headlines as Chelsea Children’s Hospital successfully secured funding for the technological toy, making the hospital the first pediatric facility in London to operate such a device. Used specifically for keyhole operations, the benefits are widely known – the only problem is they cost up to £1.5 million excluding maintenance fees. So how exactly do these ‘bots work, and are they a feasible option amidst the tough economic climate?    Continue reading →