Handheld robotics and virtual reality converge in the operating room

March 18, 2019 Orthopedics, Robotics, Smith & Nephew, Virtual Reality

VR training and robotic precision aid surgical outcomes and change how surgeons operate.

Virtual Reality has become an important tool in many surgical training regimens, and robots have been assisting in surgeries for more than a decade. So it’s perhaps not surprising that we’re seeing a technology convergence in the OR.

Osso VR, maker of a VR surgical training platform, is now prepping orthopedic surgeons to use a handheld robotic device to perform implant surgeries.

The robot is called the NAVIO surgical system, and if you’re squeamish, this thing is frankly terrifying. It looks like a gun and it’s used by surgeons to remove bone surface semi-autonomously during knee replacement. As illustrated in the embedded video, it strikes this medical layman like a handheld torture gun.

But surgery is increasingly going robotic. Following the blockbuster success of the Da Vinci surgical robot, companies have been scrambling to develop or acquire robotic surgical technology to bring the reliability of automation to the art of surgery. Johnson & Johnson recently acquired under-the-radar surgical robotics company Auris Health for more than $5 billion.

At the same time, virtual reality, which has struggled to live up to its market hype in the consumer sector, has found a niche in surgical training. Accredited surgical training is now offered in virtual reality, capitalizing on the power of 4K, 360 degree immersive technology. Medicine has long struggled to find economical and ethical ways to prepare students for the operating theater. As VR seeks to find its footing in an increasingly skeptical market, healthcare has been a beacon of enterprise adoption.

By Greg Nichols | ZDNet

Image Credit: Smith & Nephew

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Peter Coffaro is a growth-driven and strategic executive with over 25 years of progressive management success in the medical device industry. With a proven track record and recognized expertise, Peter has established himself as one of the top influencers in medical sales, as acknowledged by prestigious publications such as the World Journal of Orthopedics, Exponential Healthtech, and MedReps.com. Throughout his career, Peter has accumulated 10 years of combined sales management experience, excelling in various roles including Director, General Manager, Distributor, and Vice President. He has worked for industry-leading orthopedic companies such as Zimmer, DePuy, and Stryker, solidifying his deep knowledge and network within the field. Peter’s passion for innovation and emerging technologies led him to found OrthoFeed, an award-winning blog covering digital orthopedic news and emerging medical technologies. Through this platform, he stays at the forefront of the industry and contributes to the dissemination of valuable insights. Peter is a three-time Hall of Fame award winner at Johnson and Johnson, demonstrating his exceptional contributions and impact on the organization. His expertise extends to areas such as organizational development, business development, sales management, digital marketing, and professional education. Peter earned a B.S. degree in Biology and Chemistry from Northern Illinois University, further complementing his comprehensive understanding of the medical field. With his wealth of experience, strategic mindset, and dedication to advancing healthcare, Peter Coffaro is a valuable asset and leader in the medical device industry.