Cutlers' Surgical Prize

Closed: due to reopen Autumn 2025

The Cutlers' Surgical Prize was instituted in 1981 and has become established as one of the most prestigious annual prizes for original innovation in the design or application of surgical instruments, equipment or practice to improve the health and recovery of surgical patients. It consists of an elegant mounted Victorian silver-gilt medal, together with an award of £5,000 to the winner or winning team.

The presentation is made at a dinner held at Cutlers' Hall in March.

Each year the Royal College of Surgeons of England, in conjunction with The Cutlers’ Company, choose a surgeon (or a team including a surgeon) who has performed outstanding work in the field of technical advances in surgical treatment utilising modern technologies. The person(s) selected will be recommended for the award of the Cutlers' Surgical Prize.

How to apply

Each application should be in regard to one specific instrument, innovation or technique. A major modification of an existing instrument or technique will be considered.

Applications should be in the form of a scientific paper with a maximum of 3,000 words, supported by illustrations and/or photographs. A video is not part of an application but could be used as supplementary support following short-listing.

The application must include evidence of originality, innovation, date of development, clinical usage and an explanation of benefits in patient care.

Applications consist of:

• Applicant form;
• Written evidence from one or more independent referees as to to the surgical application.

Applicants meeting the criteria will be invited to provide a sample of the instrument and/or a video (where appropriate) after the closing date before the Award Panel meets.