Scientists claim that robot technology has become so advanced, even cancer and heart operations could soon be performed entirely by machines.
For the past 16 years only surgeon operated robots have been used in British hospitals to help with operations.
But following the first successful soft tissue surgery performed by an autonomous robot, experts are confident androids will soon be able to carry out complicated operations - with no supervision.
By taking human intervention out of the equation, they could potentially reduce complications and improve the safety and efficacy of operations.
Dr Peter Kim, of the Children's National Medical Centre, Washington DC, said: "Probably the most surprising part was when you compare it to current standards of practise, the machine does it better.
"Just imagine having the best technology and technique available and having these intelligent systems. It will ultimately have better outcomes and save lives."
His researchers designed and programmed Smart Tissue Autonomous Robot (STAR) to perform complex surgical tasks.
Equipped with a robotic arm and surgical tools, STAR combines smart imaging technologies and fluorescent markers to navigate and adapt to the complexities of soft tissue.
The researchers tested their robot against manual surgery by expert surgeons, carrying out a simple bowel procedure called a laparoscopy, and robot-assisted surgery with the da Vinci Surgical System.
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