Last month, I had the incredible opportunity to attend the Society of Robotic Surgery (SRS) 2025 Annual Meeting in Strasbourg, France. Bringing together leading experts in surgical robotics, connected health, and regulations, the event was an inspiring showcase of cutting-edge innovations and vital conversations shaping the future of robotic surgery.
A memorable start: co-moderating a live telesurgery session
The meeting began with a groundbreaking live telesurgery demonstration. I co-moderated a session where a surgeon in Strasbourg operated on a patient in Kuwait in real time, with an average latency of just 100 milliseconds. Witnessing this flawless remote procedure underscored how advanced connectivity can expand access to surgical care globally and redefine how we deliver treatment.
Engaging in panels on connectivity, cybersecurity, and regulation
Throughout the event, I participated in panels exploring the regulatory and cybersecurity challenges around telesurgery connectivity. These discussions highlighted the delicate balance between fostering innovation and ensuring patient safety within a fast-evolving wireless medical ecosystem. It became clear that success relies on a collaborative, system-wide approach involving manufacturers, clinicians, regulators, and network providers.
Discussing FDA guidance on telesurgery connectivity
I presented a talk on applying FDA regulatory guidance to telesurgery connectivity. Key takeaways included:
- Viewing connected surgical devices as part of a broader “medical device system” that includes telecom networks and infrastructure.
- Recognizing cybersecurity as an essential pillar of device safety and effectiveness.
- Implementing dynamic risk management to tackle evolving challenges in connectivity and interoperability.
- Understanding that safe, scalable telesurgery requires ongoing collaboration across the community to align technology and regulation.
Drawing from my dual experience at the FDA and Inovectrum, I aimed to highlight how regulatory frameworks can support innovation while managing connectivity risks in a holistic way.
Looking ahead
Reflecting on the full meeting, it’s clear that connectivity is critical to unlocking the next wave of robotic surgery capabilities. The energy, expertise, and shared commitment at SRS 2025 strengthened my conviction that through collaborative innovation, we can build connected surgical systems that improve patient outcomes worldwide.