Rush University Medical Center Performs First Colorectal Surgeries in the U.S. Using Prosurgics’ FreeHand Laparoscopic Camera Controller

CUPERTINO, CA--(Marketwire - July 22, 2009) -

Rush University Medical Center and surgical robotics company Prosurgics announce today the completion of the first colorectal surgeries in the U.S. using the FreeHand® laparoscopic camera controller.

Surgeons Dr. Marc Brand and Dr. Theodore Saclarides of Rush University Medical Center in Chicago successfully completed three laparoscopic hemi-colectomies using the laparoscopic camera controller. Although FreeHand is used widely in Europe, and has application in a variety of surgical specialties, these were the first procedures of this type to be performed in the U.S. Dr. Brand operated the FreeHand system during the procedures, which took place on June 22.

FreeHand is an affordable 15 lb. robotic device that gives surgeons direct control of the laparoscopic camera via a small, lightweight hands-free controller worn on the surgeon’s head. Gentle head movements permit precise scope positioning. It provides a rock-steady image and faster surgery after a very rapid learning curve.

After using FreeHand, Dr. Brand said, “A laparoscopic colectomy is uniquely challenging in that a wide field of view is required, from the ribs to the pelvis. FreeHand provided visual coverage of the entire area. It also gave me control so that I did not have to interrupt dissection to reposition the camera, or tell a person holding the camera what to do; returning control of the camera view to the surgeon allows for the image to lead the procedure instead of follow it. It’s like having an extra pair of hands. The image was excellent and very steady and no one had to be in the O.R. just to hold the ‘scope.”

Bill Perry, President of Prosurgics Inc., said, “We are delighted to have done these advanced cases at this outstanding medical center and that FreeHand performed so well. FreeHand makes procedures quicker and less stressful, and is a great teaching tool as well. A growing number of leading centers across the U.S. are seeing the benefits of FreeHand in a variety of surgical specialties.”

About Prosurgics

Prosurgics is dedicated to pioneering a new generation of innovative but affordable surgical robots. Its range of robotic solutions helps improve patient outcomes and healthcare economics in hospitals around the world. The company’s technology portfolio encompasses image guided and tele-manipulator systems, surgical planning and intra-operative navigation.

With offices in the UK (Bracknell), USA (Cupertino, CA) and Germany and a global network of expert distributors, Prosurgics delivers innovative and effective solutions for today’s surgeons and hospitals around the world.

www.freehandsurgeon.com

enquire@prosurgics.com

About Rush University Medical Center

Rush University Medical Center is an academic health center that encompasses a hospital for adults and children with more than 613 staffed beds (including Rush Children’s Hospital), the 61-bed Johnston R. Bowman Health Center for older adult and rehabilitative care, and Rush University. It also operates Rush Oak Park Hospital.

Rush is also a thriving center for basic and clinical research, with physicians and scientists involved in hundreds of research projects developing and testing the effectiveness and safety of new therapies and medical devices.

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Technorati: laparoscopic laparoscopy robot medical Rush FreeHand surgery surgeon colorectal Brand