The Japan surgical robot systems market reached US$ 539.62 million in 2024 and is expected to reach US$ 2,107.76 million by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 16.5% during the forecast period of 2025-2033.
A surgical robot system is a complex and advanced medical technology that consists of robotic devices, software, and instruments designed to assist surgeons in performing surgical procedures with greater precision, flexibility, and control. These systems use robotic arms, surgical instruments, visualization technologies, and advanced control systems to help surgeons conduct minimally invasive or even traditional open surgeries in a more effective and less invasive manner.
The Japan surgical robot systems Market has seen rapid growth driven by various factors, including advancements in technology, increasing demand for minimally invasive surgeries, and a focus on improving surgical outcomes. The demand for these surgical robot systems in Japan is evolving across different healthcare institutions. For instance, according to the National Institute of Health (NIH), more than 180 institutions have installed the da Vinci surgical system in Japan. This rising adoption of surgical robot systems is accelerating the market demand in Japan.
Market Dynamics: Drivers & Restraints
Rising surgical procedures in Japan
The rising surgical procedures in Japan is significantly driving the growth of the Japan surgical robot systems market and is expected to drive the market over the forecast period. Japan has a rapidly aging population, with almost a third of its population over 65, an estimated 36.23 million, the highest percentage among major economies. As people age, they often require complex surgeries for conditions like cardiovascular diseases, cancer, orthopedic issues, and spinal disorders.
For instance, according to the article published by Springer Nature, a total of 61,606 cardiovascular surgeries, including 120 VAD implantations and 79 heart transplants, were performed in 2022 in Japan. Additionally, according to the National Institute of Health, approximately 1.3 million orthopedic inpatient surgeries were performed in a year in Japan. As the aging population rises, the surgical procedure volume is expected to rise, which may create a demand for surgical robot systems in Japan for better outcomes.
Chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular conditions, cancer, and diabetes, are on the rise in Japan, primarily due to the aging population. These conditions often require major surgeries that can be technically challenging and require high precision. The rising burden of chronic diseases is propelling the demand for robot-assisted surgeries, especially in specialties like oncology, cardiology, and urology. Surgeons rely on robots to perform these complex procedures with better outcomes and fewer complications, driving the adoption of robotic systems.
For instance, according to the Japanese Society of Clinical Oncology, the number of cancer cases in Japan has been steadily increasing, particularly prostate cancer, which is one of the leading causes of morbidity. According to the Tokyo International Ohori Hospital, currently, more than 300 robot surgery units are in operation in Japan, and there have been performed more than 13,000 cases per year of robot-assisted radical prostatectomy. Urological robot surgery, such as robot-assisted radical prostatectomy and robot-assisted partial nephrectomy, is rapidly becoming widespread in Japan. Similarly, the demand for surgical robot systems in other surgeries like orthopedics, cardiology, etc, is expected to rise in the forecast period.
High competition from traditional surgical systems
The high competition from traditional surgical systems is one of the factors hampering the growth of the Japan surgical robot systems market. While robotic surgical systems offer significant advantages in precision, minimally invasive procedures, and improved patient outcomes, traditional surgical methods still dominate many procedures in Japan due to factors like cost, established familiarity, and lower initial investment.
One of the primary barriers to the widespread adoption of robotic surgery systems in Japan is the high initial cost. Surgical robot systems like the da Vinci Surgical System and the Medtronic Hugo System come with significant upfront costs, often exceeding several million dollars. These systems also require costly maintenance, training, and upgrades.
For instance, a single da Vinci Xi Surgical System costs approximately $1 to $2.5 million, not including ongoing maintenance and training costs. In comparison, traditional surgical systems are significantly cheaper, with many laparoscopic equipment systems costing $50,000 to $200,000, making them more accessible for smaller hospitals and healthcare facilities.
Surgeons in Japan are generally highly skilled with traditional surgical techniques, especially in fields like laparoscopic surgery, orthopedics, and general surgery. These techniques are well-established, and medical professionals are comfortable using them. In the field of laparoscopic surgery, which is widely used in Japan for gastrointestinal procedures, surgeons are highly experienced and proficient.
Segment Analysis
The Japan surgical robot systems market is segmented based on type, application, and end-user.
Application:
Orthopedic surgery dominates in the application segment of Japan's surgical robot systems, with the highest market share.
Japan has one of the oldest populations in the world, with almost a third of its population over 65, an estimated 36.23 million, according to the World Economic Forum. As people age, they are more prone to degenerative joint diseases, including osteoarthritis, spinal disorders, and hip and knee joint diseases, all of which require orthopedic surgery.
For instance, according to the National Institute of Health, approximately 1.3 million orthopedic inpatient surgeries were performed in a year in Japan. The demand for joint replacements (especially knee and hip replacements) is rising sharply due to the aging population. As a result, orthopedic surgeries are a major driver for robotic systems, which enhance the precision of joint replacements, reduce recovery times, and improve patient outcomes.
Robotic systems, such as the MAKO Robotic-Arm Assisted Surgery (by Stryker) and RAS (Robot-Assisted Surgery) for knee and hip replacements, are playing a crucial role in transforming orthopedic procedures. These systems offer higher precision during surgeries, better alignment of prosthetics, and improved patient outcomes, which are especially important in joint replacement surgeries.
For instance, the MAKO Robotic-Arm Assisted Surgery system has been increasingly adopted in Japan for knee and hip replacement surgeries. This system allows surgeons to customize procedures based on 3D imaging and offers a greater range of motion and more accurate alignment, resulting in fewer complications and faster recovery times for patients.
Competitive Landscape
The major players in the Japan surgical robot systems market include Medicaroid Corporation, Kawasaki Heavy Industries, Ltd., TELEXISTENCE Inc., Sony Group Corporation, Intuitive Surgical, Medtronic plc, MicroPort Scientific Corporation, Smith+Nephew, ASAHI SURGICAL ROBOTICS CO., LTD., and others.
Why Purchase the Report?
• Pipeline & Innovations: Reviews ongoing clinical trials, product pipelines, and forecasts upcoming advancements in medical devices and pharmaceuticals.
• Product Performance & Market Positioning: Analyze product performance, market positioning, and growth potential to optimize strategies.
• Real-World Evidence: Integrates patient feedback and data into product development for improved outcomes.
• Physician Preferences & Health System Impact: Examines healthcare provider behaviors and the impact of health system mergers on adoption strategies.
• Market Updates & Industry Changes: This covers recent regulatory changes, new policies, and emerging technologies.
• Competitive Strategies: Analyze competitor strategies, market share, and emerging players.
• Pricing & Market Access: Reviews pricing models, reimbursement trends, and market access strategies.
• Market Entry & Expansion: Identifies optimal strategies for entering new markets and partnerships.
• Regional Growth & Investment: Highlights high-growth regions and investment opportunities.
• Supply Chain Optimization: Assesses supply chain risks and distribution strategies for efficient product delivery.
• Sustainability & Regulatory Impact: Focuses on eco-friendly practices and evolving regulations in healthcare.
• Post-market Surveillance: Uses post-market data to enhance product safety and access.
• Pharmacoeconomics & Value-Based Pricing: Analyzes the shift to value-based pricing and data-driven decision-making in R&D.
The Japan surgical robot systems market report delivers a detailed analysis with 36 key tables, more than 30 visually impactful figures, and 158 pages of expert insights, providing a complete view of the market landscape.
Target Audience 2024
• Manufacturers: Pharmaceutical, Medical Device, Biotech Companies, Contract Manufacturers, Distributors, Hospitals.
• Regulatory & Policy: Compliance Officers, Government, Health Economists, Market Access Specialists.
• Technology & Innovation: AI/Robotics Providers, R&D Professionals, Clinical Trial Managers, Pharmacovigilance Experts.
• Investors: Healthcare Investors, Venture Fund Investors, Pharma Marketing & Sales.
• Consulting & Advisory: Healthcare Consultants, Industry Associations, Analysts.
• Supply Chain: Distribution and Supply Chain Managers.
• Consumers & Advocacy: Patients, Advocacy Groups, Insurance Companies.
• Academic & Research: Academic Institutions.
Learn how to effectively navigate the market research process to help guide your organization on the journey to success.
Download eBook