Hong Kong – September 07, 2026 -- Medtronic (NYSE: MDT) will invest approximately $700 million in Hong Kong-based Cornerstone Robotics as part of a strategic partnership granting the medtech giant distribution rights to Cornerstone's Sentire surgical robot in select markets outside the United States.
Medtronic secures rights to distribute Sentire in cleared ex-US markets
Under the agreement, Medtronic gains rights to sell the Sentire surgical system in markets where it has already received regulatory clearance. The Sentire system obtained National Medical Products Administration approval in China in 2024, followed by CE marking in the European Union and Health Sciences Authority approval in Singapore in May 2026. All three approvals cover minimally invasive general, gynecological, thoracic and urological procedures.
Global robotic surgery penetration remains in single digits
Both companies cited low global adoption of robotic-assisted surgery as the commercial rationale, framing the deal as a way to close the gap between rising demand for minimally invasive procedures and limited availability of surgical robotics. Matt Anderson, Senior Vice President and President of Medtronic's Surgical business, said Sentire will complement the company's existing Hugo robotic platform, expanding choice for hospitals and surgeons.
Cornerstone built vertically integrated R&D model ahead of deal
Cornerstone Robotics developed its core hardware, control software, algorithms, and proprietary imaging and energy platforms in-house, giving it direct control over product integration, quality and supply-chain resilience. Founder and CEO Professor Kwok Wai Samuel Au said the partnership will accelerate the company's ability to scale its technology to more surgeons and patients globally.
Deal advisers include Morgan Stanley and Kirkland & Ellis
Kirkland & Ellis and Global Law Office advised Cornerstone Robotics on the transaction. Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC served as exclusive financial adviser to Medtronic, with Cleary Gottlieb Steen & Hamilton LLP acting as lead legal counsel.