Virtuoso Surgical Inc. has been awarded a significant grant from the federal Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health (ARPA-H), marking a pivotal step in the integration of robotics and artificial intelligence within surgical procedures. This funding will facilitate the deployment of Virtuoso’s cutting-edge Surgical System across multiple research institutions, fostering collaboration among top experts in surgical robotics and computer science. The initiative reflects Virtuoso’s commitment to enhancing surgical precision and expanding access to advanced medical care.
Virtuoso’s recent achievement builds upon its previous advancements in endoscopic surgical systems. Historically, the company has focused on developing tools that improve dexterity and safety in minimally invasive procedures. This latest award underscores the growing recognition of Virtuoso’s technology in the medical community and its potential to address critical challenges in surgical practice.
Enhancing Surgical Precision
The Virtuoso Surgical System is engineered to replace conventional straight tools in rigid endoscopic procedures, offering surgeons enhanced dexterity through its two robotically controlled, needle-sized manipulators. These manipulators operate from the tip of a rigid endoscope less than half the diameter of a U.S. dime, allowing for more precise manipulation and cutting of tissue within the body.
Integrating AI and Machine Learning
All AI and machine learning development for the project will utilize the Virtuoso Surgical System platform. The initiative includes the formation of an embedded team of AI/ML experts within Virtuoso Surgical, who will collaborate with university research teams to advance autonomous surgical capabilities.
“Fully autonomous surgical robots will transform medicine,”
stated Robert J. Webster, III, Ph.D., Virtuoso’s president.
Future Applications and Impact
The research team aims to demonstrate a robotic surgical device capable of removing tumors from the trachea and prostate without direct surgeon intervention within the next three years, initially in simulated environments. Future applications of this technology may extend to procedures involving uterine fibroids, bladder tumors, spine surgeries, and brain cysts, potentially revolutionizing various aspects of surgical care.
The integration of demonstration-based learning allows Virtuoso’s robots to learn from human surgeons by observing and replicating their decision-making processes.
“Our vision is not to replace surgeons, but to vastly expand the work they do to improve patients’ lives,”
added Duke Herrell, Virtuoso’s CEO.
This project positions Virtuoso Surgical at the forefront of autonomous surgical technology development, leveraging collaboration with leading medical institutions to drive innovation. The focus on AI-driven autonomy aims to enhance surgical outcomes, reduce procedural risks, and address the global shortage of specialized surgeons. By continuously improving robotic systems through advanced machine learning, Virtuoso is set to make significant contributions to the future of surgical medicine.
