Elon Musk says robots will surpass best human surgeons within 5 years, doctors call claim ‘misleading’

Nawfal had shared a report spotlighting Medtronic’s Hugo robotic system, which was tested in 137 real-world procedures, including prostate, kidney, and bladder surgeries. The results were impressive: “Complication rates were notably low… Hugo achieved a 98.5% success rate, well above the 85% target,” the report noted.

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Robots will surpass good human surgeons within a few years and the best human surgeons within ~5 years. @Neuralink had to use a robot for the brain-computer electrode insertion, as it was impossible for a human to achieve the required speed and precision. https://t.co/ipPhQK8z1j

— Elon Musk (@elonmusk) April 27, 2025

While the study acknowledged that robots are still tools guided by surgeons and not replacements, it suggested a growing role for robotics in operating rooms. Musk’s confident prediction, however, drew mixed reactions.

One user challenged Musk’s statement, questioning how he could advocate for population growth while simultaneously promoting automation that could potentially eliminate jobs. Dr Sankar Adusumilli, a veteran surgeon with extensive experience in robot-assisted procedures, also joined the conversation, calling the claim “misleading”. “Robots are Not actually doing the Surgery, Surgeon is doing it with console using the robot as sophisticated tool,” he explained.

“Surgeon makes every move, robot extends that move and refines it. They are Great Tools, But Not Surgeons !! I have done more than 2400 Robot assisted surgeries for complex GI diseases. I cannot let Robot to make intricate decisions- since Every patient is different!!” he added.

“Think of the lives that could be saved with mass produced, high quality robotic surgeons bringing down the cost of healthcare and labor limitations,” another user reacted.

Neuralink is Musk’s brain-implant startup, valued at $5 billion in 2023, and is currently conducting human trials aimed at assisting individuals with spinal cord injuries. According to a report in NewsBytes, the billionaire envisions a future where Neuralink’s brain chip could benefit both people with disabilities and healthy individuals, offering rapid, minimally invasive procedures at local clinics.