INTUITIVE SURGICAL INC
For the period ended Dec 31, 2024. Filed Jan 31, 2025.
View on SEC.govAbout this filing
A company's yearly report to the SEC, with audited financial statements. It is the fullest account a company gives of its business, its finances and the risks it sees.
FY2024 · Filed Jan 31, 2025
What changed in Management’s Discussion and Analysis?
Read the current filingPrevious report: 10-K
Period ended 2023-12-31; filed 2024-01-31.
0001035267-24-000021
Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of OperationsCurrent report: 10-K
Period ended 2024-12-31; filed 2025-01-31.
0001035267-25-000017
Item 7. Management’s Discussion and Analysis of Financial Condition and Results of OperationsThe baseline is this issuer’s latest earlier reporting period of the same form that was filed before the current report. A previous 10-Q is a different quarter, not a year-over-year comparison. Amendments are excluded.
Compared 237 previous paragraphs and 243 current paragraphs.
90 unchanged; 118 reworded; 27 added; 27 removed; 2 previous and 8 current paragraphs rearranged.
Tables are not compared: 7 previous and 7 current tables excluded. Dates, whitespace, punctuation and numbering changes are ignored; changes to financial figures remain significant.
A changed paragraph is not evidence that risk increased or decreased. An unchanged paragraph does not establish that risk stayed the same.
Added paragraphs (27)
Current report
In March 2024, we obtained FDA clearance for our da Vinci 5 surgical system, our next-generation multi-port robotic system, for use in all surgical specialties and procedures indicated for da Vinci Xi, except for cardiac and pediatric indications. In October 2024, we obtained regulatory clearance in South Korea for the da Vinci 5 surgical system for use in urologic, general, gynecologic, thoracoscopic, thoracoscopically-assisted cardiotomy, and transoral otolaryngology surgical procedures. We are in the early stages of launching da Vinci 5, and we have an installed base of 362 da Vinci 5 surgical systems as of December 31, 2024. We are in the midst of a phased launch over several quarters, giving us time to mature our supply and manufacturing processes for the new system. Additionally, we are in the regulatory process in Japan and Europe for da Vinci 5.
Current report
Our learning and enabling technology offerings facilitate access to education and training on our products. Our enabling technologies include telepresence and Advanced Insights Suite (which includes Case Insights and Insights Engine), and our learning technology solutions include Intuitive Learning, SimNow, customized training models, remote case observations, and remote proctoring.
Current report
Supply chain constraints have generally improved to pre-COVID-19 pandemic levels, with some isolated residual stresses, particularly for engineered raw materials and at certain subcontract suppliers that are operationally challenged to meet our production requirements. These isolated instances did not have a material impact during 2024. Additionally, material and labor prices to produce some components remain elevated from historical levels due to market dynamics, demand mix, or general cost inflation within the supply chain. With elevated interest rates, access to credit is more difficult, and any insolvency of certain suppliers, including sole- and single-sourced suppliers, may have heightened continuity risks. Incidents of cybersecurity breaches, which have not significantly impacted our supply chain to date, also remain an active threat to sustained supply continuity. We are actively engaged in activities that seek to mitigate the impact of any supply chain risks and disruptions on our operations.
Current report
COVID-19 has had a negative impact on our procedure volumes during periods with COVID-19 outbreaks due to patient delays in both the diagnosis and treatment of diseases. While such delays have negatively impacted our procedure volumes in periods with COVID-19 outbreaks, we believe that these delays have also resulted in increased procedure volumes during those periods following such outbreaks, due to the treatment of patients in backlogs that were created during the COVID-19 outbreak.
Current report
During 2024, we did not experience noticeable procedure volume disruptions due to COVID-19. We also believe that a large portion of the patients in the backlog that required treatment during the COVID-19 pandemic have now been treated. Therefore, we believe that the impact of patient backlogs was less significant on procedure volumes in 2024 than what was experienced in 2023.
Current report
Revenue for usage-based operating lease arrangements is recognized as the system is used to perform procedures. Variable usage-based arrangements create better matching of reimbursements and cost for our customers. They also reduce our customers’ overall risk and need for capital outlay. However, because the number of procedures performed in any given period can vary significantly for many reasons, including but not limited to healthcare emergencies, alternative treatment options, and patient preferences, revenue recognized from these arrangements can be highly volatile.
Current report
Customers generally do not have the right to exit or terminate a fixed-payment lease without incurring a penalty. Generally, lease transactions generate similar gross profit margins as our sale transactions. However, because of the variability in revenue recognized for usage-based lease arrangements, including our customers’ ability to exit or cancel those arrangements prior to the end of the lease term, there is no guarantee that we will recuperate the cost of the leased system, which, in turn, could adversely impact our gross profit margins if utilization of those systems are different than our expectations.
Current report
Procedure and Placement Seasonality
Current report
In addition, historically, placements of our da Vinci surgical systems have tended to be heavier in the fourth quarter and lighter in the first quarter, as hospital budgets are reset.
Current report
•In October 2024, we obtained regulatory clearance in South Korea for our da Vinci 5 surgical system, our next-generation multi-port robotic system, for use in urologic, general, gynecologic, thoracoscopic, thoracoscopically-assisted cardiotomy, and transoral otolaryngology surgical procedures. In March 2024, we obtained FDA clearance for our da Vinci 5 surgical system for use in all surgical specialties and procedures indicated for da Vinci Xi, except for cardiac and pediatric indications as well as one contraindication related to the use of force feedback in hysterectomy and myomectomy surgical procedures. Da Vinci 5 was made available to customers in the U.S. who had collaborated with us during the development period and those with mature robotic surgery programs. We will continue working with surgeons to generate additional data on the system’s use and on expansion of our manufacturing and supply capacity before a wider commercial introduction.
Current report
•In April 2024, we obtained FDA clearance to extend the number of uses of our catheter instrument used with our Ion endoluminal system from five to eight uses.
Current report
Field Actions, Recalls, and Corrections
Current report
U.S. Procedures. U.S. da Vinci procedures grew approximately 15% in 2024, compared to approximately 19% in 2023. The 2024 U.S. procedure growth was largely attributable to strong growth in general surgery procedures, most notably cholecystectomy, hernia repair, and colorectal procedures. The number of U.S. da Vinci bariatric procedures performed declined modestly in 2024 compared to 2023. It is unclear whether the overall decline in the U.S. for surgical bariatric procedures will continue as patients evaluate new drug therapies and, if the decline continues, it is unclear what the rate of decline will be.
Current report
We placed 1,526 da Vinci surgical systems in 2024, compared to 1,370 systems in 2023. The increase in system placements reflects incremental demand for our next-generation da Vinci 5 system and continued demand for additional capacity by our customers as a result of procedure growth, partially offset by a smaller number of third-generation da Vinci systems available for trade-in. During 2024, we placed 362 da Vinci 5 systems.
Current report
Da Vinci 5. Da Vinci 5 builds on da Vinci Xi’s highly functional design, featuring force feedback technology and instruments that enable surgeons to sense and measure the force exerted on tissue during surgery. It also includes new surgeon controllers, powerful vibration and tremor controls, a next-generation 3D display and image system, and throughput and workflow enhancements, such as an integrated electrosurgical unit and insufflation capabilities technology. Da Vinci 5 has more than 10,000 times the computing power of da Vinci Xi, allowing for innovative new system capabilities and advanced digital experiences, including integration with our My Intuitive app, SimNow (virtual reality simulator), Case Insights (computational observer), and Intuitive Hub (edge computing system). Additionally, the redesigned console provides greater surgeon comfort with customizable positioning, allowing surgeons to find their best fit for surgical viewing and comfort, including the ability to sit completely upright.
Current report
•Instruments and accessories revenue increased by 19% to $5.08 billion for the year ended December 31, 2024, compared to $4.28 billion for the year ended December 31, 2023.
Current report
Product
Current report
Product gross profit for the years ended December 31, 2024, and 2023, included share-based compensation expense of $98.5 million and $83.4 million, respectively, and intangible assets amortization expense of $11.5 million and $13.5 million, respectively.
Current report
Our capital expenditures increased during 2024, as we continued to build the infrastructure needed to scale our business. As a result, beginning in 2025, we expect depreciation expense to increase, which may impact our future gross profit margin.
Current report
In 2025, the new U.S. presidential administration has proposed new and incremental tariffs on goods imported to the U.S. Specifically, tariffs of 25% could be imposed on imports from Mexico where a significant majority of our instruments and accessories are manufactured. In addition, we import raw materials and finished goods from sources outside of the U.S., which could also be subject to tariffs, such as our endoscopes, which are primarily manufactured in Germany. If the tariffs are implemented as proposed and noted above, we expect that the estimated decrease in our gross profit in 2025 could be material.
Current report
The ultimate impact of any tariffs will depend on various factors, including if any tariffs are ultimately implemented, the timing of implementation, and the amount, scope, and nature of the tariffs.
Current report
Service
Current report
Service gross profit for the years ended December 31, 2024, and 2023, included share-based compensation expense of $30.5 million and $28.2 million, respectively, and intangible assets amortization expense of $0.8 million and $0.9 million, respectively.
Current report
Selling, general and administrative expenses for the years ended December 31, 2024, and 2023, included share-based compensation expense of $305 million and $275 million, respectively, and intangible assets amortization expense of $2.4 million and $3.3 million, respectively.
Current report
Our higher effective tax rate for the year ended December 31, 2024, compared to the year ended December 31, 2023, was primarily due to the fact that the year ended December 31, 2023, had a benefit for certain Swiss deferred tax assets, partially offset by higher excess tax benefits associated with employee equity plans in 2024 compared to 2023.
Current report
Cash used in operating activities was also driven by an increase in prepaid and other assets of $232 million, primarily driven by new and extended lessee operating lease arrangements and deferred commissions as a result of operating leasing arrangements with customers. Accounts receivable increased by $96 million, primarily due to increased sales, as well as the timing of billings and collections. The unfavorable impact of these items on cash provided by operating activities was partially offset by an increase in other liabilities of $108 million, primarily driven by new and extended lessee operating lease arrangements. Also, accrued compensation and employee benefits increased by $99 million, primarily due to higher headcount and higher variable compensation.
Current report
We estimate making payments of approximately $22 million relating to our unrecognized tax benefits in the next 12 months.
Removed paragraphs (27)
Previous report
In addition, we have submitted regulatory filings in the U.S., Japan, and South Korea for our fifth-generation multi-port platform, da Vinci 5. If we obtain the required regulatory clearances, we plan a phased launch over several quarters after clearance, giving us time to mature our supply and manufacturing processes for the new system.
Previous report
Training technologies include our Intuitive Simulation products, our Intuitive Telepresence remote case observation and telementoring tools, and our dual console for use in surgeon proctoring and collaborative surgery.
Previous report
Supply chain constraints continued to show improvement as 2023 progressed, relative to 2022, based on fewer market constraints. Notably, supply of semiconductor materials rebounded, while certain residual stresses remain. Additionally, prices of such materials remain elevated due to either market demand or production-related cost inflation. With higher interest rates, access to credit may become more difficult and any insolvency of certain suppliers, including sole- and single-sourced suppliers, may have heightened continuity risks. We are actively engaged in activities to seek to mitigate the impact of any supply chain disruptions on our operations.
Previous report
Global shortages in important components have resulted in, and will continue to cause, inflationary cost pressure in our supply chain. To date, these supply chain challenges have not materially impacted our results of operations or ability to deliver products and services to our customers. However, supply constraints with certain materials, which may be unavoidable, could delay the timing of finished product deliveries, which could result in deferred or canceled procedures. Additionally, if inflationary pressures in component costs persist, we may not be able to quickly or easily adjust pricing, reduce costs, or implement countermeasures. Also, there is continued uncertainty surrounding the impact of any monetary policy changes taken by the U.S. Federal Reserve and other central banks to address the structural risks associated with inflation.
Previous report
Fluctuations in labor availability globally, including labor shortages and staff burnout and attrition, could also impact our ability to hire and retain personnel critical to our manufacturing, logistics, and commercial operations. We are also highly dependent on the principal members of our management and scientific staff. The loss of critical members of our team, or our inability to attract and retain qualified personnel, could significantly harm our operations, business, and ability to compete.
Previous report
Vinci procedures performed or the number of system placements and have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, or results of operations resulting in the failure to achieve our anticipated financial results.
Previous report
We maintain the majority of our cash and cash equivalents in accounts with major U.S. and multi-national financial institutions, and our deposits exceed insured limits. Market conditions could impact the viability of these institutions. To date, these market conditions and liquidity concerns have not impacted our results of operations. However, in the event of the failure of any of the financial institutions where we maintain our cash and cash equivalents, there can be no assurance that we would be able to access uninsured funds in a timely manner or at all. Any inability to access or delay in accessing these funds could adversely affect our business and financial position.
Previous report
In 2021, resurgences of the outbreak of a novel strain of coronavirus (COVID-19) affected da Vinci procedure volumes at various times throughout the year in most of the markets that we operate in. After each resurgence, as COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations subsided, we saw procedure volumes recover. In the U.S., the impact of high COVID-related hospitalization rates on procedure volumes was exacerbated by staffing shortages. Although hospitals were better equipped to handle COVID patients as compared to the outset of the pandemic, COVID-19 resurgences challenged hospital resources and negatively impacted da Vinci procedure volumes. In addition, delays in diagnosis and treatment of underlying conditions had a negative impact on da Vinci procedure volumes. Volumes associated with benign procedures were generally impacted to a higher degree when COVID-19 cases and hospitalizations increased, reflecting the deferability of certain elective surgeries.
Previous report
In early 2022, a resurgence of COVID-19 resulted in a significant increase in infections and hospitalization rates in the U.S. and certain countries in Europe, which, in turn, negatively impacted procedure volumes in January and February. As infections and hospitalizations started to decrease in February in the U.S. and Europe, we saw a recovery of procedure volumes. In March and during the second quarter of 2022, we also saw a resurgence in COVID-19 cases and increased hospitalizations and government interventions impacting parts of Asia, particularly China, which negatively impacted procedure volumes. During the third quarter of 2022, we did not experience significant disruptions from COVID-19. In the fourth quarter of 2022, we saw a resurgence in COVID-19 cases in China, which had a significant negative impact on our procedure volumes in the region.
Previous report
We expect the depth and extent to which COVID-19 impacts individual markets to vary based on the availability of vaccinations, personal protective equipment, intensive care units and operating rooms, and medical staff, as well as other government interventions. Additionally, COVID-19 has, and may continue to, contribute to hospital staffing shortages, which impacts hospitals’ ability to provide patient care and, in some cases, results in the deferral of elective surgeries. When COVID-19 infection rates have spiked in a particular region in the past, procedure volumes were often negatively impacted and the diagnoses of new conditions and their related treatments were sometimes deferred. While we believe that there has been a backlog of patients that remains to be treated, and that such a backlog has positively contributed to 2023 procedure volumes, it is difficult to determine if and when any remaining backlog of patients will ultimately seek diagnosis and treatment and whether they will be treated through surgery.
Previous report
Procedure Seasonality
Previous report
•In June 2021 and July 2021, we received regulatory clearance in South Korea to market our SureForm 45 Curved-Tip Stapler and SureForm 45 Gray reload, respectively. In September 2019, we received regulatory clearance in Japan to market both our SureForm 45 Curved-Tip Stapler and SureForm 45 Gray reload. In February 2019, we obtained European certification for our SureForm 45 Curved-Tip Stapler and SureForm 45 Gray reload and, in July 2019, we obtained FDA clearance for our SureForm 45 Curved-Tip Stapler and SureForm 45 Gray reload, which round out our SureForm 45 portfolio.
Previous report
•In late 2020 and early 2021, we obtained FDA clearance, European certification, and other regulatory clearances in most of our significant markets to market our Extended Use Instruments.
Previous report
Recalls and Corrections
Previous report
Our systems and instruments are regulated independently in various countries and regions of the world. The discussion of indications for use and representative or target procedures is intended solely to provide an understanding of the market for our products and is not intended to promote for sale or use any Intuitive product outside of its licensed or cleared labeling and indications for use.
Previous report
U.S. Procedures. U.S. da Vinci procedures grew approximately 19% for the year ended December 31, 2023, compared to approximately 16% for the year ended December 31, 2022. The 2022 procedure results (and comparative 2021 procedures results) reflected disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, as noted in the COVID-19 Pandemic section above. The 2023 U.S. procedure growth was largely attributable to growth in general surgery procedures, most notably cholecystectomy, hernia repair, and colorectal procedures. Growth in bariatric procedures decelerated in 2023. Growth in the more mature gynecologic procedure category accelerated in 2023, while growth in the more mature urologic procedure category was more moderate.
Previous report
Bariatric procedures have been an increased area of focus and may have benefited from certain patients prioritizing weight loss, as obesity is a significant COVID-19 risk factor. In addition, our SureForm 60mm Stapler provides surgeons with a more optimized robotic tool set for bariatric procedures using da Vinci. While bariatric procedures have grown significantly over the last three years, the pace of this growth has slowed during 2023. It is unclear whether the slowing growth is a temporary pause as patients evaluate new drug therapies or if growth in U.S. bariatric procedures will continue to slow in future periods. The diagnosis and treatment pathways for bariatric patients are long, and we cannot provide any assurance that we will continue to see significant growth in bariatric procedures in future periods.
Previous report
•Instruments and accessories revenue increased by 22% to $4.28 billion for the year ended December 31, 2023, compared to $3.52 billion for the year ended December 31, 2022.
Previous report
Product gross profit for the years ended December 31, 2023, and 2022, included share-based compensation expense of $83.4 million and $67.6 million, respectively, and intangible assets amortization expense of $13.5 million and $17.3 million, respectively
Previous report
Service gross profit for the years ended December 31, 2023, and 2022, included share-based compensation expense of $28.2 million and $23.6 million, respectively, and intangible assets amortization expense of $0.9 million and $1.9 million, respectively.
Previous report
Selling, general and administrative expenses for the years ended December 31, 2023, and 2022, included share-based compensation expense of $275 million and $261 million, respectively, and intangible assets amortization expense of $3.3 million and $5.9 million, respectively.
Previous report
Our effective tax rates for 2023 differed from the U.S. federal statutory rate of 21% primarily due to the increase in Swiss deferred tax assets, as discussed below, the tax benefits associated with employee equity plans, the effect of income earned by certain overseas entities being taxed at rates lower than the federal statutory rate, the federal research and development credit benefit, and the release of unrecognized tax benefits due to statute expiration in various jurisdictions, partially offset by the U.S. tax on foreign earnings and state income taxes (net of the federal benefit).
Previous report
Our effective tax rates for 2022 differed from the U.S. federal statutory rate of 21% primarily due to the tax benefits associated with employee equity plans, the effect of income earned by certain overseas entities being taxed at rates lower than the federal statutory rate, and the federal research and development credit benefit, partially offset by the U.S. tax on foreign earnings and state income taxes (net of the federal benefit).
Previous report
Our lower effective tax rate for the year ended December 31, 2023, compared to the year ended December 31, 2022, was primarily due to the increase in Swiss deferred tax assets, as discussed below, and lower U.S. tax on foreign earnings.
Previous report
On August 16, 2022, the Inflation Reduction Act was enacted in the U.S. and introduced a 15% alternative minimum tax based on the financial statement income of certain large corporations (“CAMT”), effective January 1, 2023. There is no impact on our provision for income taxes from the CAMT for the year ended December 31, 2023.
Previous report
We are unable to make a reasonably reliable estimate as to when payments may occur for our unrecognized tax benefits.
Previous report
Investments Valuation
Reworded paragraphs (118)
Previous wording
Open surgery remains the predominant form of surgery and is used in almost every area of the body. However, the large incisions required for open surgery create trauma to patients, typically resulting in longer hospitalization and recovery times, increased hospitalization costs, and additional pain and suffering relative to minimally invasive surgery, where MIS is available. For over three decades, MIS has reduced trauma to patients by allowing selected surgeries to be performed through small ports rather than large incisions. MIS has been widely adopted for certain surgical procedures.
Current wording
Open surgery remains a prevalent form of surgery and is used in almost every area of the body. However, the large incisions required for open surgery create trauma to patients, typically resulting in longer hospitalization and recovery times, increased hospitalization costs, and additional pain and suffering relative to minimally invasive surgery, where MIS is available. For over four decades, MIS has reduced trauma to patients by allowing selected surgeries to be performed through small ports rather than large incisions. MIS has been widely adopted for certain surgical procedures.
Previous wording
Our da Vinci products fall into five broad categories: da Vinci surgical systems, da Vinci instruments and accessories, da Vinci Stapling, da Vinci Energy, and da Vinci Vision, including Firefly Fluorescence imaging systems and da Vinci Endoscopes. We also provide a comprehensive suite of systems, learning, and services offerings. Digitally-enabled for nearly three decades, these three offerings aim to decrease variability by providing dependable, consistent functionality and an integrated user experience. Our systems category includes robotic platforms, software, vision, energy, and instruments and accessories. Our learning category includes educational technology, such as simulation and telepresence, as well as technical training programs and personalized peer-to-peer learning opportunities. Our services category assists and optimizes minimally invasive programs through readiness, on-demand support, consultation for minimally invasive program optimization, and hospitals customized analytics. Within our integrated ecosystem, our focus is to decrease variability in surgery by offering actionable insights, with digital solutions, to take action with the potential to improve outcomes, personalize learning, and optimize efficiency. We take a holistic approach, offering intelligent technology and systems designed to work together to make MIS intervention more available and applicable.
Current wording
Our da Vinci products fall into five broad categories: da Vinci surgical systems, da Vinci instruments and accessories, da Vinci stapling, da Vinci energy, and da Vinci vision, including Firefly fluorescence imaging systems and da Vinci endoscopes. We provide a comprehensive suite of systems, learning, and services offerings. Digitally enabled for nearly three decades, these three offerings aim to decrease variability by providing dependable, consistent functionality and an integrated user experience. Our systems category includes robotic platforms, software, vision, energy, and instruments and accessories. Our learning category includes learning and enabling technology, such as simulation and telepresence, as well as technical training programs and personalized peer-to-peer learning opportunities. We have a global network of field service engineers and distributors through which we deliver a suite of services, including installation, repair, maintenance, around-the-clock technical support, and system monitoring. We also offer customized analytics and consultation to hospitals for program optimization.
Previous wording
We have commercialized the following da Vinci surgical systems: the da Vinci standard surgical system in 1999, the da Vinci S surgical system in 2006, the da Vinci Si surgical system in 2009, and the fourth generation da Vinci Xi surgical system in 2014. We extended our fourth-generation platform by adding the da Vinci X surgical system, commercialized in 2017, and the da Vinci SP surgical system, commercialized in 2018. The da Vinci SP surgical system accesses the body through a single incision, while the other da Vinci surgical systems access the body through multiple incisions. All da Vinci systems include a surgeon’s console (or consoles), imaging electronics, a patient-side cart, and computational hardware and software. We are in the early stages of launching our da Vinci SP surgical system, and we have an installed base of 177 da Vinci SP surgical systems as of December 31, 2023. We have received FDA clearance for the da Vinci SP surgical system for urologic and certain transoral procedures, and we have received regulatory clearance in South Korea, where the da Vinci SP surgical system may be used for a broad set of procedures. In September 2022, we received regulatory clearance for the da Vinci SP surgical system in Japan for the same set of procedures as can be performed on the da Vinci Xi surgical system in Japan. In January 2024, we obtained the European certification in accordance with 2017/745 EU MDR (Medical Devices Regulation) for our da Vinci SP surgical system for use in endoscopic abdominopelvic, thoracoscopic, transoral otolaryngology, transanal colorectal, and breast surgical procedures. We plan to commercialize the da Vinci SP surgical system in select major European countries throughout 2024 as part of a measured rollout strategy. We plan to seek FDA clearances for additional indications for the da Vinci SP surgical system over time. We also plan to seek clearances (including for additional indications) in other OUS markets over time. The success of the da Vinci SP surgical system is dependent on positive experiences and improved clinical outcomes for the procedures for which it has been cleared as well as securing additional clinical clearances.
Current wording
We are in the early stages of launching our da Vinci SP surgical system, and we have an installed base of 273 da Vinci SP surgical systems as of December 31, 2024. We have received FDA clearance for the da Vinci SP surgical system for urologic, colorectal, general thoracoscopic, and certain transoral procedures. Additionally, the da Vinci SP surgical system has received regulatory clearance in South Korea for a broad set of procedures. The da Vinci SP surgical system has also received regulatory clearance in Japan for the same set of procedures that are currently allowed with the da Vinci Xi surgical system in Japan. In January 2024, the da Vinci SP surgical system received European certification in accordance with Regulation (EU) 2017/745 of the European Parliament and of the Council of 5 April 2017 on medical devices (the “EU MDR”) for use in endoscopic abdominopelvic, thoracoscopic, transoral otolaryngology, transanal colorectal, and breast surgical procedures, and we are commercializing the da Vinci SP surgical system in select major European countries as part of a measured rollout strategy. In August 2024, we obtained regulatory clearance in Taiwan for our da Vinci SP surgical system for use in endoscopic abdominopelvic, thoracoscopic, transoral otolaryngology, transanal colorectal, transanal total mesorectal excision, and breast surgical procedures. We plan to seek FDA clearances for additional indications for the da Vinci SP surgical system and expand the system’s regulatory approvals (including for additional indications) in other OUS markets over time. The success of the da Vinci SP surgical system is dependent on positive experiences and improved clinical outcomes for the procedures for which it has been cleared as well as securing additional clinical clearances.
Previous wording
We offer approximately 70 different multi-port da Vinci instruments to provide surgeons with flexibility in choosing the types of tools needed to perform a particular surgery. These multi-port instruments are generally robotically controlled and provide end effectors (tips) that are similar to those used in either open or laparoscopic surgery. We offer advanced instrumentation for the da Vinci X and da Vinci Xi platforms, including da Vinci Energy and da Vinci Stapler products, to provide surgeons with sophisticated, computer-aided tools to precisely and efficiently interact with tissue. The da Vinci X and da Vinci Xi surgical systems share the same instruments, whereas the da Vinci Si surgical system uses instruments that are not compatible with the da Vinci X or da Vinci Xi systems. We currently offer nine core instruments on our da Vinci SP surgical system. We plan to expand the da Vinci SP instrument offering over time.
Current wording
We offer approximately 70 different multi-port da Vinci instruments to provide surgeons with flexibility in choosing the types of tools needed to perform a particular surgery. These multi-port instruments are generally robotically controlled and provide end effectors (tips) that are similar to those used in either open or laparoscopic surgery. We offer advanced instrumentation for the da Vinci 5, da Vinci X, and da Vinci Xi surgical systems, including da Vinci energy and da Vinci stapler products, to provide surgeons with sophisticated, computer-aided tools to precisely and efficiently interact with tissue. The da Vinci 5, da Vinci X, and da Vinci Xi surgical systems generally share the same instruments, whereas the da Vinci Si surgical system uses instruments that are not compatible with the da Vinci 5, da Vinci X, and da Vinci Xi systems. Additionally, we have introduced a unique set of force feedback instruments that are only compatible with our da Vinci 5 surgical system. We also currently offer nine core instruments on our da Vinci SP surgical system. We plan to expand our da Vinci SP instrument offering over time.
Previous wording
In 2019, the FDA cleared our Ion endoluminal system, which is a flexible, robotic-assisted, catheter-based platform that utilizes instruments and accessories for which the first cleared indication is minimally invasive biopsies in the lung. Our Ion system extends our commercial offering beyond surgery into diagnostic endoluminal procedures. The system features an ultra-thin, ultra-maneuverable catheter that can articulate 180 degrees in all directions and allows navigation far into the peripheral lung and provides the stability necessary for precision in a biopsy. Many suspicious lesions found in the lung may be small and difficult to access, which can make diagnosis challenging, and Ion helps physicians obtain tissue samples from deep within the lung, which could help enable earlier diagnosis. In March 2023, we obtained the European certification in accordance with 2017/745 EU MDR (Medical Devices Regulation) for our Ion endoluminal system and, in September 2023, we received regulatory clearance for our Ion endoluminal system in South Korea. We plan to seek additional clearances, approvals, and certifications for the Ion endoluminal system in OUS markets over time.
Current wording
In 2019, we commercialized our Ion endoluminal system, which is a flexible, robotic-assisted, catheter-based platform that utilizes instruments and accessories for which the first cleared indication is minimally invasive biopsies in the lung. Our Ion system extends our commercial offering beyond surgery into diagnostic, endoluminal procedures. The system features an ultra-thin, ultra-maneuverable catheter that can articulate 180 degrees in all directions and allows navigation far into the peripheral lung and provides the stability necessary for precision in a biopsy. Many suspicious lesions found in the lung may be small and difficult to access, which can make diagnosis challenging, and Ion helps physicians obtain tissue samples from deep within the lung, which could help enable earlier diagnosis. Our Ion endoluminal system has received FDA clearance, and OUS regulatory clearances include European certification in accordance with the EU MDR, regulatory clearance in South Korea, and NMPA regulatory clearance in China. We plan to seek additional clearances, approvals, and certifications for our Ion endoluminal system in OUS markets over time.
Previous wording
The success of new product introductions depends on a number of factors including, but not limited to, pricing, competition, market and consumer acceptance, the effective forecasting and management of product demand, inventory levels, the management of manufacturing and supply costs, and the risk that new products may have quality or other defects in the early stages of introduction.
Current wording
The success of new product introductions depends on a number of factors including, but not limited to, pricing, competition, geographic market and consumer acceptance, the effective forecasting and management of product demand, inventory levels, the management of manufacturing and supply costs, and the risk that new products may have quality or other defects in the early stages of introduction.
Previous wording
Uncertainty surrounding macroeconomic and geopolitical factors in the U.S. and globally characterized by the supply chain environment, inflationary pressure, higher interest rates, instability in the global financial markets, significant disruptions in the commodities’ markets as a result of the conflict between Russia and Ukraine and the conflict between Israel and Hamas, labor shortages, and the introduction of or changes in tariffs or trade barriers may result in a recession, which could have a material adverse effect on our business.
Current wording
Our future results of operations and liquidity could be materially adversely affected by uncertainty surrounding macroeconomic and geopolitical factors in the U.S. and globally characterized by the supply chain environment, inflationary pressure, elevated interest rates, disruptions in the commodities’ markets as a result of the conflict between Russia and Ukraine and conflicts in the Middle East, including Israel and Iran, and the introduction of or changes in tariffs or trade barriers.
Previous wording
A number of hospitals continue to experience challenges with staffing and cost pressures that could affect their ability to provide patient care; however, the staffing challenges have shown signs of improvement during the second half of 2023, relative to the first half of 2023 and to the prior year. Additionally, hospitals are facing significant financial pressure as supply chain constraints and inflation drive up operating costs, higher interest rates make access to credit more expensive, unrealized losses decrease available cash reserves, and fiscal stimulus programs enacted during the COVID-19 pandemic wind down. Hospitals may also be adversely affected by the liquidity concerns in the broader financial services industry that could result in delayed access or loss of access to uninsured deposits or loss of their ability to draw on existing credit facilities involving a troubled or failed financial institution. As a consequence of the financial pressures and decreased profitability, some hospitals have indicated that they are lowering their capital investment plans and tightening their operational budgets. We believe that these factors have contributed to a softening in our U.S. capital pipeline, and we expect that demand for capital, particularly in the U.S., will continue to be impacted while macroeconomic conditions remain challenging. In addition, as overall competition for medical technologies, including robotic-assisted devices and treatment options, progresses in various markets, we will likely experience longer selling cycles and pricing pressures. Any or all of these factors could negatively impact the number of da
Current wording
Some hospitals continue to experience challenges with staffing and cost pressures that could affect their ability to provide patient care. Additionally, certain hospitals are facing significant financial pressure as supply chain constraints and inflation have driven up operating costs and elevated interest rates have made access to credit more expensive. Hospitals may also be adversely affected by the liquidity concerns as a result of the broader macroeconomic environment. Any or all of these factors could negatively impact the number of da Vinci procedures performed or surgical systems placed and have a material adverse effect on our business, financial condition, or results of operations.
Previous wording
In 2023, COVID-19 resurgences in China continued to negatively impact our procedure volumes in January. However, in February and March, as infections and hospitalization started to decrease, we saw a recovery of procedure volumes. During the remainder of 2023, we did not experience significant disruptions from COVID-19.
Current wording
In the first fiscal quarter of 2023, COVID-19 resurgences in China negatively impacted our procedure volumes in the region. However, as infections and hospitalization decreased, our procedure volumes recovered. We did not experience significant procedure volume disruptions due to COVID-19 outbreaks in any of our geographic markets during the remainder of 2023. Instead, throughout 2023, we saw a positive impact on procedure volumes and believe that such positive impacts were partially attributable to patients who had deferred treatment returning for diagnosis and treatment.
Previous wording
We generate revenue from the placement of da Vinci surgical systems, in sales or sales-type lease arrangements where revenue is recognized up-front or in fixed-payment or usage-based operating lease arrangements where revenue is recognized over time. We earn recurring revenue from the sales of instruments, accessories, and services, as well as revenue from operating leases. The da Vinci surgical system generally sells for between $0.7 million and $2.5 million, depending on the model, configuration, and geography, and represents a significant capital equipment investment for our customers when purchased. Our instruments and accessories have limited lives and will either expire or wear out as they are used in surgery, at which point they need to be replaced. We generally earn between $700 and $3,600 of instruments and accessories revenue per surgical procedure performed, depending on the type and complexity of the specific procedures performed and the number and type of instruments used. We typically enter into service contracts at the time systems are sold or leased at an annual fee between $80,000 and $200,000, depending on the configuration of the underlying system and the composition of the services offered under the contract. Our system sale arrangements generally include a five-year period of service, with the first year of service provided for free. These service contracts have generally been renewed at the end of the initial contractual service periods.
Current wording
The da Vinci surgical system generally sells for between $0.7 million and $3.1 million, depending on the model, configuration, and geography, and represents a significant capital equipment investment for our customers when purchased. Our instruments and accessories have limited lives and will either expire or wear out as they are used in surgery, at which point they need to be replaced. We generally earn between $800 and $3,600 of instruments and accessories revenue per surgical procedure performed, depending on the type and complexity of the specific procedures performed and the number and type of instruments used. We typically enter into service contracts at the time systems are sold or leased at an annual fee between $100,000 and $225,000, depending on the configuration of the underlying system and the composition of the services offered under the contract. Our system sale arrangements generally include a five-year period of service, with the first year of service provided for free. These service contracts have generally been renewed at the end of the initial contractual service periods.
Previous wording
We generate revenue from our Ion endoluminal system in a business model consistent with the da Vinci surgical system model described above. We generate revenue from the placement of Ion systems, in sales or sales-type lease arrangements where revenue is recognized up-front or in fixed-payment or usage-based operating lease arrangements where revenue is recognized over time. We earn recurring revenue from the sales of instruments, accessories, and services, as well as revenue from operating leases. The Ion system generally sells for between $500,000 and $650,000. Our instruments and accessories have limited lives and will either expire or wear out as they are used in procedures, at which point they need to be replaced. We typically enter into service contracts at the time systems are sold or leased at an annual fee between $55,000 and $65,000.
Current wording
We generate revenue from our Ion endoluminal system in a business model consistent with the da Vinci surgical system model described above. We generate up-front revenue from the placement of Ion systems through sales or sales-type lease arrangements and recurring revenue over time through fixed-payment or usage-based operating lease arrangements. We also earn recurring revenue from the sales of instruments, accessories, and services. The Ion endoluminal system generally sells for between $500,000 and $815,000. Our instruments and accessories have limited lives and will either expire or wear out as they are used in procedures, at which point they need to be replaced. We typically enter into service contracts at the time systems are sold or leased at an annual fee between $55,000 and $80,000.
Previous wording
Recurring revenue consists of instruments and accessories revenue, service revenue, and operating lease revenue. Recurring revenue increased to $5.94 billion, or 83% of total revenue in 2023, compared to $4.92 billion, or 79% of total revenue in 2022, and $4.29 billion, or 75% of total revenue in 2021.
Current wording
Recurring revenue consists of instruments and accessories revenue, service revenue, and operating lease revenue. Recurring revenue increased to $7.04 billion, or 84% of total revenue in 2024, compared to $5.94 billion, or 83% of total revenue in 2023, and $4.92 billion, or 79% of total revenue in 2022.
Previous wording
Instruments and accessories revenue has grown at a faster rate than systems revenue over time. Instruments and accessories revenue increased to $4.28 billion in 2023, compared to $3.52 billion in 2022 and $3.10 billion in 2021. The increase in instruments and accessories revenue largely reflects continued procedure adoption.
Current wording
Instruments and accessories revenue has grown at a faster rate than systems revenue over time. Instruments and accessories revenue increased to $5.08 billion in 2024, compared to $4.28 billion in 2023 and $3.52 billion in 2022. The increase in instruments and accessories revenue largely reflects continued procedure adoption.
Previous wording
Service revenue was $1.17 billion in 2023, compared to $1.02 billion in 2022 and $0.92 billion in 2021. The increase in service revenue was primarily driven by the growth of the base of installed da Vinci surgical systems producing service revenue. The installed base of da Vinci surgical systems grew 14% to approximately 8,606 as of December 31, 2023; 12% to approximately 7,544 as of December 31, 2022; and 12% to approximately 6,730 as of December 31, 2021.
Current wording
Service revenue was $1.31 billion in 2024, compared to $1.17 billion in 2023 and $1.02 billion in 2022. The increase in service revenue was primarily driven by the growth of the base of installed da Vinci surgical systems producing service revenue. The installed base of da Vinci surgical systems grew 15% to approximately 9,902 as of December 31, 2024; 14% to approximately 8,606 as of December 31, 2023; and 12% to approximately 7,544 as of December 31, 2022.
Previous wording
We use the installed base, number of placements, and utilization of systems as metrics for financial and operational decision-making and as a means to evaluate period-to-period comparisons. Management believes that the installed base, number of placements, and utilization of systems provide meaningful supplemental information regarding our performance, as management believes that the installed base, number of placements, and utilization of systems are an indicator of the rate of adoption of our robotic-assisted medical procedures as well as an indicator of future recurring revenue. Management believes that both it and investors benefit from referring to the installed base, number of placements, and utilization of systems in assessing our performance and when planning, forecasting, and analyzing future periods. The installed base, number of placements, and utilization of systems also facilitate management’s internal comparisons of our historical performance. We believe that the installed base, number of placements, and utilization of systems are useful to investors as metrics because (1) they allow for greater transparency with respect to key metrics used by management in its financial and operational decision-making, and (2) they are used by institutional investors and the analyst community to help them analyze the performance of our business. The vast majority of installed systems are connected via the internet. System logs can also be accessed by field engineers for systems that are not connected to the internet. We utilize this information as well as other information from agreements and discussions with our customers that involve estimates and judgments, which are, by their nature, subject to substantial uncertainties and assumptions. Estimates and judgments for determining the installed base, number of placements, and utilization of systems may be impacted over time by various factors, including system internet connectivity, hospital and distributor reporting behavior, and inherent complexities in new agreements. Such estimates and judgments are also susceptible to technical errors. In addition, the relationship between the installed base, number of placements, and utilization of systems and our revenues may fluctuate from period to period, and growth in the installed base, number of placements, and utilization of systems may not correspond to an increase in revenue. The installed base, number of placements, and utilization of systems are not intended to be considered in isolation or as a substitute for, or superior to, revenue or other financial information prepared and presented in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”).
Current wording
they allow for greater transparency with respect to key metrics used by management in its financial and operational decision-making, and (2) they are used by institutional investors and the analyst community to help them analyze the performance of our business. The vast majority of our installed systems are connected via the internet. System logs can also be accessed by field engineers for systems that are not connected to the internet. We utilize this information as well as other information from agreements and discussions with our customers that involve estimates and judgments, which are, by their nature, subject to substantial uncertainties and assumptions. Estimates and judgments for determining the installed base, number of placements, and utilization of systems may be impacted over time by various factors, including system internet connectivity, hospital and distributor reporting behavior, and inherent complexities in new agreements. Such estimates and judgments are also susceptible to technical errors. In addition, the relationship between the installed base, number of placements, and utilization of systems and our revenues may fluctuate from period to period, and growth in the installed base, number of placements, and utilization of systems may not correspond to an increase in revenue. The installed base, number of placements, and utilization of systems are not intended to be considered in isolation or as a substitute for, or superior to, revenue or other financial information prepared and presented in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”).
Previous wording
Since 2013, we have entered into sales-type and fixed-payment operating lease arrangements directly with certain qualified customers as a way to offer customers flexibility in how they acquire systems and expand their robotic-assisted programs while leveraging our balance sheet. These leases generally have commercially competitive terms as compared to other third-party entities that offer equipment leasing. We have also entered into usage-based operating lease arrangements with qualified customers that have committed da Vinci programs where we charge for the system and service as the systems are utilized. We believe that these alternative financing structures have been effective and well-received, and we are willing to expand the proportion of these structures based on customer demand. We include systems placed under fixed-payment and usage-based operating lease arrangements, as well as sales-type lease arrangements, in our system placement and installed base disclosures. We exclude operating lease-related revenue, including usage-based revenue, and Ion system revenue from our da Vinci surgical system average selling price (“ASP”) computations.
Current wording
Since 2013, we have entered into sales-type and fixed-payment operating lease arrangements directly with certain qualified customers as a way to offer customers flexibility in how they acquire systems and expand their robotic-assisted programs while leveraging our balance sheet. These leases generally have commercially competitive terms as compared to other third-party entities that offer equipment leasing. We also enter into usage-based operating lease arrangements with qualified customers that have committed da Vinci programs where we charge for the system and service as procedures are performed, offering greater predictability in costs for customers. We believe that all of these alternative financing structures have been effective and well-received, and we are willing to expand the proportion of any of these structures based on customer needs and demand.
Previous wording
Revenue from fixed-payment operating lease arrangements is recognized on a straight-line basis over the lease term, and revenue from usage-based operating lease arrangements is recognized as the systems are used. We generally set fixed-payment and usage-based operating lease arrangements’ pricing at a modest premium relative to purchased systems reflecting the time value of money and, in the case of usage-based operating lease arrangements, the risk that system utilization may fall short of anticipated levels. Variable lease revenue recognized from usage-based operating lease arrangements has been included in our operating lease metrics herein. Operating lease revenue has grown at a faster rate than overall systems revenue and was $501 million, $377 million, and $277 million for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022, and 2021, respectively, of which $217 million, $133 million, and $78 million, respectively, was variable lease revenue related to our usage-based operating lease arrangements. As revenue for fixed-payment and usage-based operating lease arrangements is recognized over time, total systems revenue growth is reduced in a period when the number of operating lease placements increases as a proportion of total system placements. Generally, lease transactions generate similar gross margins as our sale transactions.
Current wording
Revenue for systems sold or placed under a sales-type lease arrangement is recognized upfront whereas revenue for fixed-payment operating lease arrangements is recognized on a straight-line basis over time. Therefore, in a period when the number of operating lease placements increases as a proportion of total system placements, total systems revenue is reduced, which can create volatility in the systems revenue recognized in any given period. We generally set fixed-payment and usage-based operating lease arrangements’ pricing at a modest premium relative to purchased systems reflecting the time value of money and, in the case of usage-based operating lease arrangements, the risk that system utilization may fall short of anticipated levels.
Previous wording
For some operating lease arrangements, our customers are provided with the right to purchase the leased system at certain points during and/or at the end of the lease term. Revenue generated from customer purchases of systems under operating lease arrangements (“Lease Buyouts”) was $74 million, $72 million, and $96 million for the years ended December 31, 2023, 2022, and 2021, respectively. We expect that revenue recognized from customer exercises of buyout options will fluctuate based on the timing of when, and if, customers choose to exercise their buyout options.
Current wording
For some operating lease arrangements, our customers are provided with the right to purchase the leased system at certain points during and/or at the end of the lease term. Revenue generated from customer purchases of systems under operating lease arrangements (“Lease Buyouts”) was $109 million, $74 million, and $72 million for the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022, respectively. We expect that revenue recognized from customer exercises of buyout options will fluctuate based on the timing of when, and if, customers choose to exercise such buyout options.
Previous wording
System placements are driven by procedure growth in most markets. In some markets, system placements are constrained by regulation. In geographies where da Vinci procedure adoption is in an early stage or system placements are constrained by regulation, system sales will precede procedure growth. System placements also vary due to seasonality largely aligned with hospital budgeting cycles. On an annual basis, we typically place a higher proportion of systems in the fourth quarter and a lower proportion in the first quarter as customer budgets are reset. Systems revenue is also affected by the proportion of system placements under operating lease arrangements, recurring fixed-payment and usage-based operating lease revenue, Lease Buyouts, product mix, ASPs, trade-in activities, customer mix, and specified-price trade-in rights. We generally do not provide specified-price trade-in rights or upgrade rights at the time of a system purchase. However, we expect that the number of arrangements that may contain these specified-price trade-in rights will increase when we launch our fifth-generation multi-port platform, da Vinci 5. Systems revenue remained flat at $1.68 billion in 2023. Systems revenue declined 1% to $1.68 billion in 2022. Systems revenue grew 44% to $1.69 billion in 2021.
Current wording
System placements are driven by procedure growth in most geographic markets. In some markets, system placements are constrained by regulation. In geographies where da Vinci procedure adoption is in an early stage or system placements are constrained by regulation, system sales will precede procedure growth. System placements also vary due to seasonality, largely aligned with hospital budgeting cycles. On an annual basis, we typically place a higher proportion of systems in the fourth quarter and a lower proportion in the first quarter as many customer budgets are reset. Systems revenue is also affected by the proportion of system placements under operating lease arrangements, recurring fixed-payment and usage-based operating lease revenue, Lease Buyouts, product mix, ASPs, trade-in activities, customer mix, and specified-price trade-in rights. We generally do not provide specified-price trade-in rights or upgrade rights at the time of a system purchase; however, we expect that the number of arrangements that may contain these specified-price trade-in rights will increase as we continue the phased launch of our next-generation multi-port platform, da Vinci 5. For trade-in activities involving operating lease upgrades, depending on the timing and terms of the upgrade transaction, the amount of revenue generated on the initial and new lease arrangements may not, in the aggregate, generate the same amount of revenue that a traditional sale and trade-in transaction would. Systems revenue increased 17% to $1.97 billion in 2024. Systems revenue remained flat at $1.68 billion in 2023. Systems revenue declined 1% to $1.68 billion in 2022.
Previous wording
Our da Vinci surgical systems are generally used for soft tissue surgery for areas of the body between the pelvis and the neck, primarily in general, gynecologic, urologic, cardiothoracic, and head and neck surgeries. Within these categories, procedures range in complexity from cancer and other highly complex procedures to less complex procedures for benign conditions. Cancer and other highly complex procedures tend to be reimbursed at higher rates than less complex procedures for benign conditions. Thus, hospitals are more sensitive to the costs associated with treating less complex, benign conditions. Our strategy is to provide hospitals with attractive clinical and economical solutions across the spectrum of procedure complexity. Our fully featured da Vinci Xi surgical system with advanced instruments (including da Vinci Energy and EndoWrist and SureForm Stapler products) and our Integrated Table Motion product targets the more complex procedure segment. Our da Vinci X surgical system is targeted toward price-sensitive markets and procedures. Our da Vinci SP surgical system complements the da Vinci Xi and X surgical systems by enabling surgeons to access narrow workspaces.
Current wording
Our da Vinci surgical systems are generally used for soft tissue surgery for areas of the body between the pelvis and the neck, primarily in general, gynecologic, urologic, cardiothoracic, and head and neck surgical procedures. Within these categories, procedures range in complexity from cancer and other highly complex procedures to less complex procedures for benign conditions. Cancer and other highly complex procedures tend to be reimbursed at higher rates than less complex procedures for benign conditions. Thus, hospitals are more sensitive to the costs associated with treating less complex, benign conditions. Our strategy is to provide hospitals with attractive clinical and economical solutions across the spectrum of procedure complexity. Our fully featured da Vinci 5 and da Vinci Xi surgical systems with advanced instruments (including da Vinci energy and da Vinci stapler products) and our Integrated Table Motion product target the more complex procedure segment. Our da Vinci X surgical system is targeted toward price-sensitive geographic markets and procedures. Our da Vinci SP surgical system complements the da Vinci 5, da Vinci X, and da Vinci Xi surgical systems by enabling surgeons to access narrow workspaces.
Previous wording
More than half of the da Vinci procedures performed are for benign conditions, most notably hernia repairs, hysterectomies, and cholecystectomies. These benign procedures and other short-term elective procedures tend to be more seasonal than cancer operations and surgeries for other life-threatening conditions. Seasonality in the U.S. for procedures for benign conditions typically results in higher fourth quarter procedure volume when more patients have met annual deductibles and lower first quarter procedure volume when deductibles are reset. Seasonality outside of the U.S. varies and is more pronounced around local holidays and vacation periods, which have lower procedure volume. As a result of the factors outlined in the COVID-19 Pandemic section above, including past and potentially future recommendations of authorities to defer elective procedures, historical procedure patterns may be disrupted.
Current wording
More than half of the da Vinci procedures performed are for benign conditions, most notably hernia repairs, hysterectomies, and cholecystectomies. These benign procedures and other short-term elective procedures tend to be more seasonal than cancer operations and surgeries for other life-threatening conditions. Seasonality in the U.S. for procedures for benign conditions typically results in higher fourth quarter procedure volume when more patients have met annual deductibles and lower first quarter procedure volume when deductibles are reset. Seasonality outside of the U.S. varies and is more pronounced around local holidays and vacation periods, which have lower procedure volume.
Previous wording
Our products must meet the requirements of a large and growing body of international standards that govern the product safety, efficacy, advertising, labeling, safety reporting design, manufacture, materials content and sourcing, testing, certification, packaging, installation, use, and disposal of our products. Examples of such standards include electrical safety standards, such as those of the International Electrotechnical Commission, and composition standards, such as the Reduction of Hazardous Substances and the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directives in the EU. Failure to meet these standards could limit our ability to market our products in those regions that require compliance with such standards.
Current wording
Our products must meet the requirements of a large and growing body of international regulations and standards that govern the product safety, efficacy, advertising, labeling, safety reporting design, manufacture, materials content and sourcing, testing, certification, packaging, installation, use, and disposal of our products. Examples of such standards include electrical safety standards, such as those of the International Electrotechnical Commission, and composition standards, such as the Reduction of Hazardous Substances and the Waste Electrical and Electronic Equipment Directives in the EU. Failure to meet these standards could limit our ability to market our products in those regions that require compliance with such standards.
Previous wording
FDA or other foreign regulatory authorities and compliance with medical device reporting regulations, which require that manufacturers report to the FDA or other foreign regulatory authorities if their device caused or contributed, or may have caused or contributed, to a death or serious injury or malfunctioned in a way that would likely cause or contribute to a death or serious injury if it were to recur.
Current wording
Our products and operations are also subject to increasingly stringent medical device, privacy, and other regulations by regional, federal, state, and local authorities. After a device is placed on the market, numerous FDA and comparable foreign regulatory requirements continue to apply. These requirements include establishment registration and device listing with the FDA or other foreign regulatory authorities and compliance with medical device reporting regulations, which require that manufacturers report to the FDA or other foreign regulatory authorities if their device caused or contributed, or may have caused or contributed, to a death or serious injury or malfunctioned in a way that would likely cause or contribute to a death or serious injury if it were to recur.
Previous wording
We have generally obtained the regulatory clearances, approvals, and certifications required to market our products associated with our da Vinci multi-port surgical systems (S, Si, Xi, and X systems) for our targeted surgical specialties within the U.S., South Korea, Japan, and the European markets in which we operate. Since 2021, we have obtained regulatory clearances, approvals, and certifications for the following products:
Current wording
We have generally obtained the regulatory clearances, approvals, and certifications required to market our products associated with our da Vinci multi-port surgical systems (da Vinci S, da Vinci Si, da Vinci Xi, and da Vinci X systems) for our targeted surgical specialties within the U.S., South Korea, Japan, and the European markets in which we operate. We have additionally obtained regulatory clearances, approvals, and certifications for the following products over the past several years:
Previous wording
•In April 2023, we obtained FDA clearance for the use of our da Vinci SP surgical system in simple prostatectomy procedures. We also obtained FDA clearance for the use of our da Vinci SP surgical system in transvesical approaches to simple and radical prostatectomy.
Current wording
•In December 2024, we obtained FDA clearance for the use of our da Vinci SP surgical system in colorectal surgical procedures. In July 2024, we obtained FDA clearance for the use of our da Vinci SP surgical system in general thoracoscopic surgical procedures. In April 2023, we obtained FDA clearance for the use of our da Vinci SP surgical system in simple prostatectomy procedures. We also obtained FDA clearance for the use of our da Vinci SP surgical system in transvesical approaches to simple and radical prostatectomy.
Previous wording
•In July 2023, we received regulatory clearance for our E-200 generator in Japan and South Korea. In November 2022, we obtained FDA clearance for our E-200 generator. The E-200 generator can be used in da Vinci robotic procedures, as well as non-robotic open and laparoscopic procedures, to deliver high-frequency energy for cutting, coagulation, and vessel sealing of tissues. The E-200 generator includes the same advanced energy capability as the E-100 generator and supports the same vessel sealing instruments.
Current wording
•In December 2024, we obtained European certification in accordance with the EU MDR for our E-200 generator. In July 2023, we received regulatory clearance for our E-200 generator in Japan and South Korea. In November 2022, we obtained FDA clearance for our E-200 generator. The E-200 generator can be used in da Vinci robotic procedures, as well as non-robotic open and laparoscopic procedures, to deliver high-frequency energy for cutting, coagulation, and vessel sealing of tissues. The E-200 generator includes the same advanced energy capability as the E-100 generator and supports the same vessel sealing instruments.
Previous wording
•In October 2022, we received regulatory clearance in Japan to market our 8 mm SureForm 30 Curved-Tip and Straight-Tip Stapler instruments and reloads for use in general, thoracic (except for cardiac), gynecologic, and urologic surgery. In December 2021, we obtained FDA clearance for our 8 mm SureForm 30 Curved-Tip Stapler and reloads for use in general, thoracic, gynecologic, urologic, and pediatric surgery. We completed initial evaluations of the 8 mm SureForm 30 stapler with certain customers in the U.S. in 2022. After the initial feedback, we are completing design changes and are targeting another submission in 2024.
Current wording
•In September 2024, we obtained FDA clearance for our redesigned 8 mm SureForm 30 stapler and 8 mm SureForm 30 Curved-Tip stapler instruments and reloads for use in general, thoracic, gynecologic, urologic, and pediatric surgical procedures. In April 2024, we obtained European certification in accordance with the EU MDR for our redesigned 8 mm SureForm 30 stapler and 8 mm SureForm 30 Curved-Tip stapler instruments and reloads for use in general, thoracic, gynecologic, urologic, and pediatric surgical procedures.
Previous wording
•In January 2024, we obtained the European certification in accordance with 2017/745 EU MDR (Medical Devices Regulation) for our da Vinci SP surgical system for use in endoscopic abdominopelvic, thoracoscopic, transoral otolaryngology, transanal colorectal, and breast surgical procedures. We plan to commercialize the da Vinci SP surgical system in select major European countries throughout 2024 as part of a measured rollout strategy. In September 2022, we obtained regulatory clearance for our da Vinci SP surgical system in Japan for use in general surgeries, thoracic surgeries (excluding cardiac procedures and intercostal approaches), urologic surgeries, gynecologic surgeries, and transoral head and neck surgeries.
Current wording
•In August 2024, we obtained regulatory clearance in Taiwan for our da Vinci SP surgical system for use in endoscopic abdominopelvic, thoracoscopic, transoral otolaryngology, transanal colorectal, transanal total mesorectal excision, and breast surgical procedures. In January 2024, we obtained European certification in accordance with the EU MDR for our da Vinci SP surgical system for use in endoscopic abdominopelvic, thoracoscopic, transoral otolaryngology, transanal colorectal, and breast surgical procedures. We are commercializing the da Vinci SP surgical system in select major European countries as part of a measured rollout. In September 2022, we obtained regulatory clearance for our da Vinci SP surgical system in Japan for use in general, thoracic (excluding cardiac procedures and intercostal approaches), urologic, gynecologic, and transoral head and neck surgical procedures.
Previous wording
•In September 2023, we received regulatory clearance in South Korea for our Ion endoluminal system. We expect the introduction of the Ion system in South Korea to follow the refinement of our training pathways in the region and the gathering of local clinical and economic data. In March 2023, we obtained the European certification in accordance with 2017/745 EU MDR (Medical Devices Regulation) for our Ion endoluminal system. In Europe, we plan to initially focus on the United Kingdom (“UK”) market and on the collection of clinical data in support of our European reimbursement strategy. Our Ion system previously received FDA clearance in the U.S. in 2019.
Current wording
•In March 2024, we received NMPA regulatory clearance for our Ion endoluminal system in China. We placed our first Ion systems in China during the third quarter of 2024 and will continue our rollout of the Ion system in China in a measured fashion while we optimize training pathways and collect additional clinical data. In September 2023, we received regulatory clearance in South Korea for our Ion endoluminal system. We expect the introduction of the Ion system in South Korea to follow the refinement of our training pathways in the region and the gathering of local clinical and economic data. In March 2023, we obtained European certification in accordance with the EU MDR for our Ion endoluminal system. In Europe, we continued commercialization in the UK and are beginning to place Ion systems in continental Europe with a similar approach of initially focusing on the collection of clinical data in support of our European reimbursement strategy.
Previous wording
•Following approval in June 2023 by China’s National Medical Products Administration (“NMPA”) for a local version of our da Vinci Xi surgical system, in August 2023, our Intuitive-Fosun Pharma Joint Venture received a manufacturing license that permits the Joint Venture to manufacture our da Vinci Xi surgical system for sale to customers in China.
Current wording
•In August 2023, following approval by China’s NMPA for a local version of our da Vinci Xi surgical system in June 2023, our Intuitive-Fosun Pharma Joint Venture received a manufacturing license that permits the Joint Venture to manufacture our da Vinci Xi surgical system for sale to customers in China.
Previous wording
•In March 2022, we received regulatory clearance in China to market our da Vinci Endoscope Plus. We have also received regulatory clearances in South Korea and Japan to market our da Vinci Endoscope Plus in December 2019 and May 2020, respectively. In June 2019, we obtained European certification for our da Vinci Endoscope Plus for the da Vinci Xi and da Vinci X surgical systems. Following the European certification, in July 2019, we obtained FDA clearance for our da Vinci Endoscope Plus.
Current wording
•In March 2022, we received regulatory clearance in China to market our da Vinci Endoscope Plus. We have also received regulatory clearances in Japan and South Korea to market our da Vinci Endoscope Plus in May 2020 and December 2019, respectively. In July 2019, we obtained FDA clearance for our da Vinci Endoscope Plus, and in June 2019, we obtained European certification for our da Vinci Endoscope Plus for the da Vinci Xi and da Vinci X surgical systems.
Previous wording
In June 2023, the China National Health Commission published the 14th five-year plan quota for major medical equipment to be sold in China on its official website. Under the 2023 Quota, the government will allow for the sale of 559 new surgical robots into China, which could include da Vinci surgical systems as well as surgical systems introduced by others. As of December 31, 2023, including systems that were sold in prior quarters, we have placed 76 da Vinci surgical systems under the 2023 Quota. Future sales of da Vinci surgical systems under this and any previously published open quotas are uncertain, as they are open to other medical device companies that have introduced robotic-assisted surgical systems and are dependent on hospitals completing a tender process and receiving associated approvals. Also, our ability to track the number of systems that could be sold under these quotas in the future will be limited by provincial and national agencies making such information publicly available.
Current wording
In June 2023, the China National Health Commission published the 2023 Quota. Under the 2023 Quota, the government will allow for the sale of 559 new surgical robots into China, which could include da Vinci surgical systems as well as surgical systems introduced by others. As of December 31, 2024, including systems that were sold in prior quarters, we have placed 121 da Vinci surgical systems under the 2023 Quota. Future sales of da Vinci surgical systems under this and any previously published open quotas are uncertain, as they are open to other medical device companies that have introduced robotic-assisted surgical systems and are dependent on hospitals completing a tender process and receiving associated approvals. Our ability to track the number of systems that could be sold under these quotas in the future is limited by provincial and national agencies making such information publicly available.
Previous wording
Since 2022, several provinces, including the Hunan Provincial Healthcare Security Administration, have implemented significant limits on what hospitals can charge patients for surgeries using robotic surgical technology, including soft tissue surgery and orthopedics. These limits have significantly impacted the number of procedures performed and have impacted our instruments and accessories revenue in those provinces. As of the date of this report, these limits have not had a material impact on our business, financial condition, or results of operations, as only a small portion of our installed base in China is currently located in the impacted provinces. Companies providing robotic surgical technology, including our Joint Venture in China, have been meeting with Chinese government healthcare agencies to discuss these developments and to provide feedback. We cannot assure you that additional provincial or national healthcare agencies and administrations will not impose similar limits, and we expect to continue to face increased pricing pressure, both of which could further impact the number of procedures performed and our instruments and accessories revenue in China.
Current wording
Since 2022, several provinces in China have implemented significant limits on what hospitals can charge patients for surgeries using robotic surgical technology, including soft tissue surgery. These limits have significantly impacted the number of procedures performed and have impacted our instruments and accessories revenue in those provinces. However, as of the date of this report, these limits have not had a material impact on our business, financial condition, or results of operations, as only a small portion of our installed base in China is currently located in the impacted provinces. Companies providing robotic surgical technology, including our Joint Venture in China, have been meeting with Chinese government healthcare agencies to discuss these developments and to provide feedback. We cannot assure you that additional provincial or national healthcare agencies and administrations will not impose similar limits, and we expect to continue to face increased pricing pressure, both of which could further impact the number of procedures performed and our instruments and accessories revenue in China.
Previous wording
The Japanese Ministry of Health, Labor, and Welfare considers reimbursement for procedures in April of even-numbered years. The process for obtaining reimbursement requires Japanese university hospitals and surgical societies, with our support, to seek reimbursement. There are multiple pathways to obtain reimbursement for procedures, including those that require in-country clinical and economic data. In April 2012 and April 2016, the MHLW granted reimbursement status for prostatectomy and partial nephrectomy, respectively. Most prostatectomies and partial nephrectomies were open procedures prior to da Vinci reimbursement. Da Vinci procedure reimbursement for prostatectomy and partial nephrectomy procedures are higher than open and conventional laparoscopic procedure reimbursements. An additional 12 da Vinci procedures were granted reimbursement in April, 2018, including gastrectomy, low anterior resection, lobectomy, and hysterectomy, for both malignant and benign conditions, and an additional seven da Vinci procedures were granted reimbursement in April, 2020. An additional eight da Vinci procedures were granted reimbursement in April, 2022, including colon resection. In addition, we received higher reimbursement for da Vinci gastrectomy procedures, as compared to open and conventional laparoscopic procedure reimbursements. The additional reimbursed procedures have varying levels of conventional laparoscopic penetration and will generally be reimbursed at rates equal to the conventional laparoscopic procedures. Given the reimbursement level and laparoscopic penetration for these additional procedures, there can be no assurance that the adoption pace for these procedures will be similar to prostatectomy or partial nephrectomy, given their higher reimbursement, or any other da Vinci procedure.
Current wording
The Japanese MHLW considers reimbursement for procedures in April of even-numbered years. The process for obtaining reimbursement requires Japanese university hospitals and surgical societies, with our support, to seek reimbursement. There are multiple pathways to obtain reimbursement for procedures, including those that require in-country clinical and economic data. An additional five da Vinci procedures were granted reimbursement in April 2024, including lobectomy for benign conditions. In addition, we received higher reimbursement for certain da Vinci rectal resection procedures, as compared to open procedure reimbursements. The additional reimbursed procedures have varying levels of conventional laparoscopic penetration and will generally be reimbursed at rates equal to the conventional laparoscopic procedures. Given the reimbursement level and laparoscopic penetration for these additional procedures, there can be no assurance that the adoption pace for these procedures will be similar to prostatectomy or partial nephrectomy, given their higher reimbursement, or any other da Vinci procedure.
Previous wording
The adoption of robotic-assisted surgery using the da Vinci surgical system has the potential to grow for those procedures that offer greater patient value than to non-da Vinci alternatives and competitive total economics for healthcare providers. Our da Vinci surgical systems are used primarily in general, urologic, gynecologic, cardiothoracic, and head and neck surgeries. We focus our organization and investments on developing, marketing, and training products and services for procedures in which da Vinci can bring patient value relative to alternative treatment options and/or economic benefit to healthcare providers. Target procedures in general surgery include hernia repair (both ventral and inguinal), colorectal, cholecystectomy, and bariatric procedures. Target procedures in urology include prostatectomy and partial nephrectomy. Target procedures in gynecology include hysterectomy for both cancer and benign conditions and sacrocolpopexy. In cardiothoracic surgery, target procedures include lung resection. In head and neck surgery, target procedures include transoral surgery. Not all indications, procedures, or products described may be available in a given country or region or on all generations of da Vinci surgical systems. Surgeons and their patients need to consult the product labeling in their specific country and for each product in order to determine the cleared uses, as well as important limitations, restrictions, or contraindications.
Current wording
The adoption of robotic-assisted surgery using the da Vinci surgical system has the potential to grow for those procedures that offer greater patient value than to non-da Vinci alternatives and competitive total economics for healthcare providers. Our da Vinci surgical systems are used primarily in general, gynecologic, urologic, cardiothoracic, and head and neck surgical procedures. We focus our organization and investments on developing, marketing, and training products and services for procedures in which da Vinci can bring patient value relative to alternative treatment options and/or economic benefit to healthcare providers. Target procedures in general surgery include hernia repair (both ventral and inguinal), colorectal, cholecystectomy, and bariatric procedures. Target procedures in urology include prostatectomy and partial nephrectomy. Target procedures in gynecology include hysterectomy for both cancer and benign conditions and sacrocolpopexy. In cardiothoracic surgery, target procedures include lung resection. In head and neck surgery, target procedures include transoral surgery. Not all indications, procedures, or products described may be available in a given country or region or on all generations of da Vinci surgical systems. Surgeons and their patients need to consult the product labeling in their specific country and for each product in order to determine the cleared uses, as well as important limitations, restrictions, or contraindications.
Previous wording
In 2023, approximately 2,286,000 surgical procedures were performed with da Vinci surgical systems, compared to approximately 1,875,000 and 1,594,000 surgical procedures performed with da Vinci surgical systems in 2022 and 2021, respectively. The increase in our overall procedure volume in 2023 was largely attributable to growth in U.S. general surgery, OUS urologic surgery, OUS general surgery (particularly cancer), and U.S. gynecologic surgery procedures. The overall procedure volumes in the comparative 2022 and 2021 years reflect the disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic, as noted in the COVID-19 Pandemic section above.
Current wording
In 2024, approximately 2,683,000 surgical procedures were performed with da Vinci surgical systems, compared to approximately 2,286,000 and 1,875,000 surgical procedures performed with da Vinci surgical systems in 2023 and 2022, respectively. The increase in our overall procedure volume in 2024 was largely attributable to growth in U.S. general surgery, OUS general surgery (particularly cancer), OUS urologic surgery, and U.S. gynecologic surgery procedures. The overall procedure volume in the 2022 comparative year reflects disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
Previous wording
Overall U.S. procedure volume with da Vinci surgical systems grew to approximately 1,532,000 in 2023, compared to approximately 1,282,000 in 2022 and approximately 1,109,000 in 2021. General surgery was our largest and fastest growing U.S. specialty in 2023 with procedure volume that grew to approximately 896,000 in 2023, compared to approximately 720,000 in 2022 and approximately 588,000 in 2021. Gynecology was our second largest U.S. surgical specialty in 2023 with procedure volume that grew to approximately 390,000 in 2023, compared to approximately 341,000 in 2022 and approximately 316,000 in 2021. Urology was our third largest U.S. surgical specialty in 2023 with procedure volume that grew to approximately 173,000 in 2023, compared to approximately 162,000 in 2022 and approximately 153,000 in 2021.
Current wording
Overall U.S. procedure volume with da Vinci surgical systems grew to approximately 1,757,000 in 2024, compared to approximately 1,532,000 in 2023 and approximately 1,282,000 in 2022. General surgery was our largest and fastest growing U.S. specialty in 2024 with procedure volume that grew to approximately 1,063,000 in 2024, compared to approximately 896,000 in 2023 and approximately 720,000 in 2022. Gynecology was our second largest U.S. surgical specialty in 2024 with procedure volume that grew to approximately 423,000 in 2024, compared to approximately 390,000 in 2023 and approximately 341,000 in 2022. Urology was our third largest U.S. surgical specialty in 2024 with procedure volume that grew to approximately 186,000 in 2024, compared to approximately 173,000 in 2023 and approximately 162,000 in 2022.
Previous wording
Overall OUS procedure volume with da Vinci surgical systems grew to approximately 754,000 in 2023, compared to approximately 593,000 in 2022 and approximately 485,000 in 2021. Urology was our largest OUS specialty in 2023 with procedure volume that grew to approximately 381,000 in 2023, compared to approximately 316,000 in 2022 and approximately 264,000 in 2021. General surgery was our second largest and fastest growing OUS specialty in 2023 with procedure volume that grew to approximately 188,000 in 2023, compared to approximately 133,000 in 2022 and approximately 101,000 in 2021. Gynecology was our third largest OUS specialty in 2023 with procedure volume that grew to approximately 110,000 in 2023, compared to approximately 86,000 in 2022 and approximately 70,000 in 2021.
Current wording
Overall OUS procedure volume with da Vinci surgical systems grew to approximately 926,000 in 2024, compared to approximately 754,000 in 2023 and approximately 593,000 in 2022. Urology was our largest OUS surgical specialty in 2024 with procedure volume that grew to approximately 435,000 in 2024, compared to approximately 381,000 in 2023 and approximately 316,000 in 2022. General surgery was our second largest and fastest growing OUS specialty in 2024 with procedure volume that grew to approximately 254,000 in 2024, compared to approximately 188,000 in 2023 and approximately 133,000 in 2022. Gynecology was our third largest OUS surgical specialty in 2024 with procedure volume that grew to approximately 142,000 in 2024, compared to approximately 110,000 in 2023 and approximately 86,000 in 2022.
Previous wording
In 2023, approximately 54,000 biopsy procedures were performed with Ion systems, compared to approximately 23,500 in 2022 and approximately 7,400 in 2021. The increase in our overall procedure volume in 2023 reflects a larger installed base of approximately 534 systems, an increase of 66% compared to the installed base of approximately 321 systems as of 2022. Currently, the vast majority of Ion biopsy procedures are performed in the U.S.
Current wording
In 2024, approximately 95,500 biopsy procedures were performed with Ion systems, compared to approximately 53,800 in 2023 and approximately 23,500 in 2022. The increase in our overall procedure volume in 2024 reflects a larger installed base of approximately 805 systems, an increase of 51% compared to the installed base of approximately 534 systems as of 2023. Currently, the vast majority of Ion biopsy procedures are performed in the U.S.
Previous wording
Overall. Total da Vinci procedures performed by our customers grew approximately 22% for the year ended December 31, 2023, compared to approximately 18% for the year ended December 31, 2022. The growth in the comparative 2022 procedure results partially reflected disruption caused by the COVID-19 pandemic in both the 2022 and comparative 2021 procedure results, as noted in the COVID-19 Pandemic section above. The 2023 procedure growth was largely attributable to growth in U.S. general surgery, OUS urologic surgery, OUS general surgery (particularly cancer), and U.S. gynecologic surgery procedures. Delays in both the diagnosis and treatments of diseases reflecting disruptions caused by COVID-19 have previously, and may continue to, adversely impact procedure volumes in periods with disruption. Such delays may also create treatment backlogs that could have a beneficial impact on future period procedure volumes.
Current wording
Overall. Total da Vinci procedures performed by our customers grew approximately 17% in 2024, compared to approximately 22% in 2023. We believe that the growth in the comparative 2023 procedure results for both U.S. and OUS procedures partially reflected a benefit from procedures performed related to the backlog of patient treatments that resulted from COVID-19, as noted in the COVID-19 Pandemic section above. The 2024 procedure growth was largely attributable to growth in U.S. general surgery, OUS general surgery (particularly cancer), OUS urologic surgery, and U.S. gynecologic surgery procedures.
Showing the first 40 of 118 pairs. Open the source sections for the rest.
Rearranged current paragraphs (8)
Current report — wording carried from elsewhere
We have commercialized the following da Vinci surgical systems: the da Vinci standard surgical system in 1999, the da Vinci S surgical system in 2006, the da Vinci Si surgical system in 2009, the fourth-generation da Vinci Xi surgical system in 2014, and the fifth-generation da Vinci 5 surgical system in 2024. We extended our fourth-generation platform by adding the da Vinci X surgical system, commercialized in 2017, and the da Vinci SP surgical system, commercialized in 2018. The da Vinci SP surgical system accesses the body through a single incision, while the other da Vinci surgical systems access the body through multiple incisions. All da Vinci systems include a surgeon’s console (or consoles), imaging electronics, a patient-side cart, and computational hardware and software.
Current report — wording carried from elsewhere
We generate up-front revenue from the placement of da Vinci surgical systems through sales or sales-type lease arrangements and recurring revenue over time through fixed-payment or usage-based operating lease arrangements. We also earn recurring revenue from the sales of instruments, accessories, and services.
Current report — wording carried from elsewhere
We use the installed base, number of placements, and utilization of systems as metrics for financial and operational decision-making and as a means to evaluate period-to-period comparisons. Management believes that the installed base, number of placements, and utilization of systems provide meaningful supplemental information regarding our performance, as management believes that the installed base, number of placements, and utilization of systems are indicators of the rate of adoption of our robotic-assisted medical procedures as well as an indicator of future recurring revenue. Management believes that both it and investors benefit from referring to the installed base, number of placements, and utilization of systems in assessing our performance and when planning, forecasting, and analyzing future periods. The installed base, number of placements, and utilization of systems also facilitate management’s internal comparisons of our historical performance. We believe that the installed base, number of placements, and utilization of systems are useful to investors as metrics, because (1)
Current report — wording carried from elsewhere
We include systems placed under fixed-payment and usage-based operating lease arrangements, as well as sales-type lease arrangements, in our system placement and installed base disclosures. We exclude operating lease-related revenue, including usage-based revenue, and Ion system revenue from our da Vinci surgical system average selling price (“ASP”) computations.
Current report — wording carried from elsewhere
Variable lease revenue recognized from usage-based operating lease arrangements has been included in our operating lease metrics herein. Operating lease revenue has grown at a faster rate than overall systems revenue and was $654 million, $501 million, and $377 million for the years ended December 31, 2024, 2023, and 2022, respectively, of which $338 million, $217 million, and $133 million, respectively, was variable lease revenue related to our usage-based operating lease arrangements.
Current report — wording carried from elsewhere
The E-200 generator includes the same advanced energy capability as the E-100 generator and supports the same vessel sealing instruments.
Current report — wording carried from elsewhere
$21 million. For the year ended December 31, 2023, we sold our shares in this investment, recognizing an additional nominal loss.
Current report — wording carried from elsewhere
The non-cash charges outlined above were partially offset by changes in operating assets and liabilities that resulted in $778 million of cash used in operating activities during the year ended December 31, 2023. Inventory, including the transfer of equipment from inventory to property, plant, and equipment, increased by $713 million, primarily to address the growth in the business as well as to mitigate risks of disruption that could arise from supply or other matters. Refer to the supplemental cash flow information in Note 4 to the Consolidated Financial Statements for further details.
Rearranged previous paragraphs (2)
Previous report — wording carried elsewhere
Our products and operations are also subject to increasingly stringent medical device, privacy, and other regulations by regional, federal, state, and local authorities. After a device is placed on the market, numerous FDA and comparable foreign regulatory requirements continue to apply. These requirements include establishment registration and device listing with the
Previous report — wording carried elsewhere
The Company’s Joint Venture with Fosun Pharma was established to research, develop, manufacture, and sell robotic-assisted, catheter-based medical devices. The Joint Venture is owned 60% by us and 40% by Fosun Pharma and is located in China. The catheter-based technology will initially target early diagnosis and cost-effective treatment of lung cancer, one of the most commonly diagnosed forms of cancer in the world. Distribution of catheter-based medical devices in China will be conducted by the Joint Venture, while distribution outside of China will be conducted by us.