Related Experiment Video
Updated: Jul 7, 2025
05:57
A Teleoperated Robotic System-Assisted Percutaneous Transiliac-Transsacral Screw Fixation Technique
Published on: January 6, 2023
2.3K
Robotic Microsurgery in Extremity Reconstruction - Experience With a Novel Robotic System
Inga S Besmens1, Olga Politikou1, Pietro Giovanoli1
1Department of Plastic Surgery and Hand Surgery, University Hospital Zurich, Zurich, Switzerland.
Surgical Innovation
|December 22, 2023
Summary
This study introduces the Symani Surgical System for extremity reconstruction. While microvascular anastomoses were slower, the robotic system enabled precise movements and improved access to difficult anatomy.
Area of Science:
- Microsurgery
- Robotic Surgery
- Extremity Reconstruction
Background:
- Robotic systems are established in surgery; initial applications in microsurgery are emerging.
- The Symani Surgical System offers motion scaling and tremor filtration for microsurgical demands.
- Symani's NanoWrist Instruments provide enhanced dexterity beyond human hand capabilities.
Purpose of the Study:
- To report initial experiences using the Symani Surgical System for extremity reconstruction.
- To evaluate the system's utility in complex microsurgical procedures.
Main Methods:
- The Symani Surgical System was utilized in 6 extremity reconstruction cases.
- Surgeons controlled robotic arms via footswitch, using either an exoscope or microscope for visualization.
- Procedures included microsurgical anastomoses (arterial) and nerve grafting.
Main Results:
- All microvascular anastomoses remained patent, though procedure time was longer than conventional methods.
- Robotic assistance facilitated precise epineural coaptation with minimal tissue manipulation.
- The system improved accessibility to challenging anatomical locations and enhanced fine motor control.
Conclusions:
- Robotic microsurgery, exemplified by the Symani system, shows potential for future surgical applications.
- Further data collection is necessary to fully establish the role and benefits of robotic microsurgery.
