NASHVILLE, November 14, 2023–(BUSINESS WIRE)–Virtuoso Surgical, Inc., a leading medical device company, has been awarded a $1.8 million Small Business Innovation Research (SBIR) NIH grant. This grant, to be received over the next two years, will play a crucial role in supporting the development and commercialization of Virtuoso’s groundbreaking robotic surgery system.
The Virtuoso surgical system is poised to revolutionize endoscopic surgery by enabling surgeons to perform complex procedures with unprecedented control and dexterity. Unlike current instruments, the Virtuoso system utilizes robotic tools and maneuvers that were previously impossible to achieve. With the ability to mimic a surgeon’s hand motions, the system provides a new level of precision and flexibility in minimally invasive surgeries.
“With this SBIR Phase II grant, we are excited to continue our research and development efforts focused on improving bladder lesion removal,” stated S. Duke Herrell, III, MD, FACS, CEO, Co-Founder, and Chief Medical Officer of Virtuoso Surgical. “By leveraging our patented robotic technology, we aim to address the challenges associated with obtaining key information during bladder lesion removal surgeries, ultimately improving outcomes for patients.”
Through a collaborative partnership with the Johns Hopkins University Simulation Innovation Lab at the Brady Urological Institute, Virtuoso Surgical aims to further enhance its technology. Renowned simulation and education expert Ahmed Ghazi, MD, and his colleagues will contribute their expertise to advance the research and development of the Virtuoso system.
While initial applications of the Virtuoso Surgical system will focus on bladder lesions and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) tissue removal, the technology has the potential to revolutionize a wide range of surgical procedures. The system’s compact design, with needle-sized manipulators and a miniaturized endoscope, allows for precise control and manipulation of surgical tools, making it suitable for various specialties, including urology, neurosurgery, gynecology, orthopedics, and more.
Pending regulatory approval, Virtuoso Surgical anticipates the first-in-human use of their system in early 2024, followed by FDA approval for sale in the United States. The successful implementation of this innovative robotic surgery system has the potential to transform the field of endoscopic surgery, offering improved outcomes for patients and empowering surgeons with enhanced capabilities.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the Virtuoso Surgical system?
The Virtuoso Surgical system is a groundbreaking robotic surgery system developed by Virtuoso Surgical, Inc. It enables surgeons to perform minimally invasive endoscopic procedures with unmatched control and dexterity.
What is the purpose of the SBIR NIH grant received by Virtuoso Surgical?
The $1.8 million SBIR NIH grant awarded to Virtuoso Surgical will support the research, development, and commercialization of their robotic surgery system. The grant will play a vital role in advancing the technology and bringing it to market.
What are the potential applications of the Virtuoso Surgical system?
While initially focused on bladder lesions and benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) tissue removal, the Virtuoso Surgical system has the potential to enhance surgical procedures across various specialties, including urology, neurosurgery, gynecology, orthopedics, and more.
When will the Virtuoso Surgical system be available for use?
Pending regulatory approval, Virtuoso Surgical anticipates the first-in-human use of their system in early 2024. Following this, the company will seek FDA approval for sale in the United States.
Sources:
– [Business Wire](https://www.businesswire.com/news/home/20231114149726/en/)