A Lithuanian-based robotics company, Sentante, developed a novel and impressive step forward in biomedical technology. For this reason, they started to work on a robotic system that allowed performing thrombectomy procedures remotely. This cutting-edge technology allows surgeons to conduct life-saving procedures from literally miles away and in some cases, even from their homes. This milestone was achieved when Professor Iris Grunwald from the University of Dundee successfully conducted a remote thrombectomy on a human cadaver, utilizing Sentante’s cutting-edge equipment.
The innovative operation is the first ever transatlantic surgery carried out employing Sentante’s robotic technology. Ricardo Hanel, a neurosurgeon in Jacksonville, Florida, made history recently when he operated on the human subject. What’s more, that patient was found more than 4,000 miles across the Atlantic in Dundee, Scotland. This surgery is a powerful testament to the potency of remote medical interventions. These types of approaches have the potential to dramatically improve patient outcomes from stroke.
Sentante’s robotic system provides up-to-the-minute imaging including live X-rays. This allows surgeons to have real-time visualization of the progress of the thrombectomy throughout the procedure. The machine mirrors the movements of the surgeon, allowing for unmatched precision and control, even when controlling the machine from miles away. According to Professor Grunwald, that’s because only 20 minutes of training is required for anyone to start effectively using Sentante’s technology. This helps ensure that medical professionals of all kinds can more easily contribute to this exciting new frontier in surgery.
Our comprehensive tech is a new alternative that liberates you from the chains of your hometown. More importantly, it saves you valuable time when your brain is perhaps in a more zombified state. Professor Grunwald stated, “Every six minutes delay, you have a 1% less chance of having a good outcome.”
The implications of this technology are profound. With Sentante’s system, doctors are free to perform life-saving procedures regardless of geographic boundaries. This breakthrough has the potential to revolutionize how we treat strokes. It is intended to provide a means to make specialized, expert medical care available to all patients, no matter where they may be located.
“This could make expert stroke treatment available to everyone,” Professor Grunwald added, highlighting the potential impact of remote surgeries on global health care.
Edvardas Satkauskas, CEO of Sentante, shared his own enthusiasm for the future of robotic surgery. He remarked, “Sometimes, the future is way closer than we think,” reflecting the rapid advancements being made in medical technology through innovation and collaboration.
The smooth execution of this new transatlantic procedure has now paved the way for tangible, impactful future developments. The team responsible for Sentante has plans to begin clinical trials next year. This pilot round will be an important first step towards broader implementation of their technology in hospitals around the world.
Professor Grunwald’s contributions to this historic project have been nothing short of monumental. She was recently awarded the title of Innovate UK’s Woman in Innovation for her work with Sentante. In addition to her role as a researcher, she serves as vice president of the World Federation for Interventional Stroke Treatment, underscoring her commitment to advancing stroke care globally.
The telemedicine landscape is moving at the speed of technology. Sentante’s robotic system takes a monumental step by providing proven and timely stroke treatments in the golden hour. There are still exciting developments and clinical trials on the horizon. These exciting applications are positioned to become the standard practice not just in developing nations, but hospitals all over the world!