Enabling single-site laparoscopy: the SPORT platform

Area of Science:

• Robotic Surgery
• Minimally Invasive Surgery
• Surgical Technology

Background:

• Titan Medical Inc.'s Single Port Orifice Robotic Technology (SPORT) Surgical System aims to address challenges in single-access minimally invasive surgery.
• This study evaluated the feasibility of using the SPORT system for various digestive surgery procedures in a preclinical setting.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the feasibility of the SPORT surgical robotic platform for digestive surgery.
• To evaluate surgeon usability and identify areas for optimization of the SPORT system.

Main Methods:

• Twelve minimally invasive procedures (cholecystectomies, Nissen fundoplications, splenectomy, hepatic pedicle dissection) were performed on pigs and a human cadaver.
• Surgeons' technical skills were assessed using the modified Objective Structured Assessment of Technical Skills (OSATS) score.
• Surgeon feedback and recommendations were systematically collected.

Main Results:

• All procedures were successfully completed using the SPORT system.
• Surgeons reported positive feedback on the system's interface, imaging, dexterity, and ergonomics.
• A learning curve effect was observed in the modified OSATS scores for device-related tasks.

Conclusions:

• The SPORT prototype is a feasible and safe option for various abdominal procedures in a preclinical setting.
• This preliminary experience supports the continued development of single-port robotically assisted surgery.
• Further research and development are warranted for the SPORT system.