Memic developing VR simulation for surgical robotics training

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Hominis robotics arms inside the virtual reality simulation. | Credit: VirtaMed

VirtaMed and Memic Innovative Surgery are working together to develop virtual reality simulations for surgeons training on Memic’s Hominis surgical system.

Under the terms partnership, the two companies will develop an abstract training program in which surgeons train on virtual reality consoles with kinematic feedback to use the Hominis system in transvaginal gynecological procedures. The goal is standardized, quantifiable training as part of the ongoing Memic Skills Development Pathway.

The Hominis surgical robot, which received FDA de novo clearance in February 2021, features small robotic arms that include shoulder, elbow and wrist joints to provide human-level dexterity and 360-degree articulation. The surgical robotics system has an indication for use in single-site, natural orifice laparoscopic-assisted transvaginal benign gynecological procedures including benign hysterectomy.

Memic officials expect the simulator program will be ready for real-world use by the end of 2022.

“Before entering the operating room, it is essential for surgeons performing any procedure including transvaginal robotic surgeries to be fully confident in their abilities. Training programs including simulation offer significant benefits in terms of progressing competency and confidence level and refining the necessary skills to perform a procedure. They also help ensure that surgeons have a comprehensive understanding of how the tools and technologies they plan to use work,” said Michael Conditt, SVP of strategic marketing and clinical development at Memic.

Based in Tel Aviv, Israel, Memic plans to go public in a SPAC merger with MedTech Acquisition Corporation. Memic also raised $96 million in Series D funding in April 2021.

In January 2022, the first three U.S. medical facilities acquired Hominis robot-assisted surgical systems. Those facilities are HCA Florida Healthcare’s Kendall Regional Medical Center, Advent Health Celebration and The Women’s Hospital at Jackson Memorial.