What factors contributed to ISRG's record Q4 2024 earnings?

Intuitive Surgical (ISRG) reported robust Q4 2024 earnings, driven by several key factors:

1. Increased Da Vinci System Placements: The company placed 379 da Vinci surgical systems in Q4 2024, including 110 da Vinci 5 systems. This reflects strong market adoption and a 15% increase in the installed base to 9,539 systems.
2. Growth in Da Vinci and Ion Procedure Volumes: Instruments and Accessories revenues grew by 18% to $1.26 billion, driven by increased da Vinci and Ion procedure volumes. Worldwide da Vinci procedures grew by 18% compared to the same quarter last year.
3. Improved Pricing: Systems segment revenues increased by 17.4% year-over-year, totaling $445 million. This was partly due to higher pricing for systems.
4. Cash Generation: ISRG ended Q4 2024 with $8.31 billion in cash, cash equivalents, and investments, an increase of $628 million during the quarter, primarily driven by cash generated from operations.

These factors, combined with operational efficiencies and market demand, contributed to ISRG's record Q4 2024 earnings.