Medtronic is partnering with Cornerstone Robotics, investing roughly $700 million in the surgical robotics company in exchange for the right to distribute its systems in select international markets.

Medtronic on Tuesday said it will distribute Cornerstone's Sentire surgical system alongside its own Hugo robotic-assisted surgery system. Together, the two platforms will expand access, offering surgeons and health systems more choice and flexible solutions, it added.

"Our strategy is focused on driving the next generation of minimally invasive surgery, one of our biggest growth opportunities," said Matt Anderson, senior vice president and president of Medtronic's surgical division.

Global adoption of robotic-assisted surgery still sits in the single digits, Medtronic said. However, the company added that the opportunity to expand access for patients, physicians and health systems around the world is significant.