Johnson & Johnson’s entry into the surgical robotics space took a hit when a delay in Medtronic’s plans derailed their Ottava platform’s market launch. However, the company recently announced its plans to submit an IDE (Investigational Device Exemption) application to the FDA in the second half of 2024 to initiate clinical trials for Ottava.
Ottava stands out with its innovative technology that incorporates four robotic arms into a standard-size surgical table. This unified architecture ensures an invisible design, allowing the robotic arms to be available when needed and stowed under the surgical table when not in use. By removing barriers to movement and collaboration in robotic operating rooms, Ottava aims to enhance surgical workflow and safety.
One of the key features of Ottava is its “twin motion” capability, enabling synchronized movement of the table and robotic arms. This feature allows surgical teams to address important clinical needs during procedures, such as repositioning a patient without disrupting the surgery.
Dr. Eduardo Parra-Davila, a Colorectal and General Surgeon at the Palm Beach Digital Institute, emphasized the need for a versatile robotic system that can adapt to any operating room worldwide. He highlighted Ottava’s ability to incorporate into any OR and provide surgeons with the space they need to enhance workflow, increase safety, and enable comprehensive patient access.
The domination of Intuitive Surgical in the laparoscopy space for surgical robotics may be challenged by Johnson & Johnson’s Ottava platform. Intuitive has held a strong position since the FDA approved its da Vinci system in 2000. Although Medtronic has obtained a CE mark for its Hugo Robotic-Assisted Surgery platform, it is yet to secure FDA approval.
Johnson & Johnson made significant strides in the surgical robotics field in 2019 with the acquisition of Auris Health, known for its FDA-cleared Monarch Platform, and by taking full ownership of Verb Surgical, a joint venture with Verily Life Sciences.
As the surgical robotics landscape continues to evolve, Johnson & Johnson’s Ottava platform presents a promising addition with its unique design and potential to overcome existing barriers in operating rooms worldwide.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is the Ottava platform?
The Ottava platform is a surgical robotics system developed by Johnson & Johnson. It incorporates four robotic arms into a standard-size surgical table, allowing for enhanced surgical workflow and collaboration in operating rooms.
2. When will clinical trials for Ottava begin?
Johnson & Johnson plans to submit an IDE application to the FDA in the second half of 2024 to initiate clinical trials for the Ottava platform.
3. How does Ottava differ from existing surgical robotics systems?
Ottava’s “twin motion” feature enables synchronized movement of the table and robotic arms, providing surgical teams with the capability to address important clinical needs without interrupting procedures. Additionally, Ottava’s design allows it to fit seamlessly into any operating room, offering adaptability and ease of use.
4. How does Ottava compete with Intuitive Surgical’s da Vinci system?
While Intuitive Surgical has dominated the laparoscopy space for surgical robotics since 2000, Johnson & Johnson’s Ottava platform presents a potential challenger. Ottava’s unique design and innovative features aim to overcome existing limitations in robotic operating rooms.
5. Is Ottava approved for market use?
No, Ottava is currently undergoing development and is not yet approved for market use. Johnson & Johnson plans to initiate clinical trials after obtaining approval from the FDA.