13 Jun 2008
Cutting-edge surgical robots - no longer the preserve of the privileged few
Stockholm, Sweden 13 June 2008 - This week, surgical robotics company Prosurgics revealed its next generation robotic camera holder, FreeHand, at the congress of the European Association for Endoscopic Surgery (EAES) in Stockholm. FreeHand has been designed to bring affordable robotic assistance to every operating room. When using FreeHand, the surgeon is placed in direct control of the position of their laparoscope.
During extensive market research amongst surgeons around the world, Prosurgics found that many have difficulty in securing a dependable assistant to hold the camera during laparoscopic procedures. And even when quality assistance is available, long procedures are tiring, leading to camera shake. Some surgeons even reported suffering motion sickness when operating.
FreeHand has been designed to address these problems. Taking only moments to set up, FreeHand is used by the surgeon to tilt, pan and zoom the camera using a hands-free controller attached to a head band or surgical cap. Once in position, the camera is held in a rock steady grip, producing images of previously unattainable clarity.
Mr Philippe Grange, Consultant Urological Surgeon at King's College Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, commenting at the launch of FreeHand at the EAES, said: "There are three key reasons why I like using FreeHand. First, it gives me a completely steady picture, and that speeds precise procedures, such as delicate suturing. Secondly I can use my assistant to their full potential - both hands are available to help me. Finally, I am in total control; how the surgery progresses is no longer dependant upon the quality of an assistant."
FreeHand received an outstandingly positive reception from EAES delegates and is being demonstrated at other congresses throughout the summer. The first purchasers will be taking delivery in September.
Last updated: 14 Jul 2009, 11:18 AM
