I don't suppose you'd count something like the da Vinci robots as a step forward? I got to try out a demo unit once (on a dummy! not on a real human), really cool stuff. I'm really glad I tried it _after_ I had my laparoscopic appendectomy - it was somehow a little terrifying how clumsy it felt holding the "regular" tools used, compared to using the robot.
Yes, tho they have been around now for about 20y, are big (no
good for eg neurosurgery, ent) and cost $2m.
You don't need that for lap appendicectomy, - just a better scope, and a good surgeon.
Robots have no advantage over human dexterity. They have a few niche roles eg where we can't get our hands in eg the prostate.
