Amit Momaya, M.D., section chief of the Sports Medicine Section and associate professor in the Department of Orthopaedic Surgery, recently joined the Convergence Medical Advisory Board, marking a significant collaboration in the realm of orthopaedic innovation. Convergence Medical, a 2022-founded pre-clinical start-up, brings together a unique synergy of medical expertise and engineering prowess, focusing on pushing the boundaries of arthroscopy.
Central to Convergence Medical's groundbreaking achievements is the development of the V01-Arthroscopic Surgical Robot, a world-first innovation designed to revolutionize minimally invasive surgery in orthopaedics. This robotic marvel introduces an array of features, notably providing concurrent control through both a user console and a VR headset. This immersive approach places surgeons virtually inside the joint, allowing untethered control and facilitating collaboration with other health care staff during procedures.
Convergence Medical is committed to addressing substantial challenges in arthroscopic surgery, and the V01 exemplifies this commitment. The robot offers rigid stability, robotic precision, and an intuitive interface, streamlining operations and improving efficiency. This is particularly impactful for the 70% of surgeons experiencing musculoskeletal pain and the 30% forced into early retirement, as well as the 40% of patients facing observable damage during arthroscopic procedures.
The V01 isn't just an incremental improvement; it replaces outdated devices in arthroscopic operating theatres with its three arms, 21 degrees of freedom, inbuilt vision, plasma energy, and environmental management system. With features like 2D and 3D video, flexible-tipped instruments, and advanced software controls, the V01 sets a new standard for arthroscopic care.
As Momaya assumes a pivotal role on the Convergence Medical Advisory Board, the collaborative efforts are poised to reshape the landscape of arthroscopic surgery. The V01 represents a leap forward in possibilities for both surgeons and patients, marking a transformative chapter in the field of orthopaedics.
The Heersink School of Medicine communications team sat down with Dr. Momaya to learn more about the V01-Arthroscopic Surgical Robot.
Rendering of Convergence Medical's V01-Arthroscopic Surgical RobotQ: What issues for health care providers will this robot help solve?
The robot will assist surgeons on multiple fronts. Oftentimes, arthroscopy procedures are performed with variability between surgeons. Robotics can bring greater accuracy. Furthermore, the robot may allow us to perform procedures or access areas not previously accessible. In addition, the robot may help surgeons perform procedures in a more ergonomic manner and allow greater use of our hands for other functions at the same time.
Q: What issues for patients will this robot help solve?
For patients, arthroscopy procedures may be done in a safer and more reliable manner. It will hopefully improve outcomes for patients.
Q: What innovative features will the robot have? (mentioned in the announcement)
The robot will give the surgeon the ability to have concurrent control via a console and VR headset. It will have multiple arms and articulations to allow the surgeon to perform procedures in an accurate manner.
Q: What prompted you to join the Convergence Medical team to help develop this robot?
Bringing robotics to arthroscopy will be a market disruptor. I enjoy working on innovations that may help improve patient outcomes and help surgeons treat their patients better.