Horizon Surgical Systems performs first AI-assisted cataract surgery

Horizon Surgical Systems announced that the world’s first robotic-assisted cataract surgery using the Polaris platform was recently completed by Uday Devgan, MD, FACS.

The Polaris platform is the world’s first AI-supported and robotics-enabled surgical system developed specifically for ophthalmology, according to the company, and is designed to bring together “advanced robotics and intelligent imaging with the goal of making cataract care more precise, consistent, and accessible.” It features microsurgical robotics and is driven by AI that “merges real-time imaging with advanced machine learning.”

The company says that the platform is made to provide patients a consistent outcome of cataract surgery, since “outcomes can vary based on surgeon technique, case complexity, and training level.”

Devgan commented on the platform and surgery in a press release from the company, saying, “Every cataract patient deserves the same level of safety, precision, and visual outcome, but the reality is that even the best surgeons can encounter subtle inconsistencies across procedures. With Polaris, I experienced a new level of control that directly addresses those challenges. It has the potential to deliver more reliable outcomes for patients while giving surgeons the confidence that every case can be approached with greater consistency.”

Jean Pierre Hubschman, MD, founder and CEO of Horizon, stated, “Polaris was designed to extend surgeons’ capabilities by delivering greater precision while enhancing safety and efficiency in ophthalmic surgery. Achieving the world’s first successful robotic cataract surgery is a landmark milestone that underscores how robotics and AI can help address some of the most pressing challenges in global eye care.”

In the coming months, the company noted that it plans to treat additional patients with the Polaris platform with the hope of demonstrating its expanded capabilities, helping the company to ultimately secure US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approval and commercialization.

References:

1. Horizon Surgical Systems Completes World’s First Robotic-Assisted Cataract Surgery. Published October 8, 2025. Accessed October 10, 2025. https://horizonsurgicalsystems.com/horizon-surgical-systems-completes-worlds-first-robotic-assisted-cataract-surgery/