Versatile System Makes Robotic Surgery More Accessible

A compact design expands the potential of robotic surgery by providing an adaptable system that is portable, transportable, and affordable.

The CMR Surgical (Cambridge, United Kingdom) Versius surgical robotic system is designed to mimic the human arm using a unique four-axis wrist joint. The proprietary, patented form factor provides freedom in port placement, with the added benefits of fully wristed 5.8 mm instruments, three-dimensional (3D) HD vision, easy-to adopt instrument control, and a choice of ergonomic working positions that reduce stress and fatigue. This is made possible because of its small form factor, modular design, and individually cart-mounted arms.


Every Versius arm is embedded with advanced collaborative robotics that allow surgical teams to move the arms while the surgeon is operating, adding increased access should it be required, and all without disturbing the surgeon and the procedure. Versius can also be easily moved between operating rooms and even hospitals, and is quick to set up. Its small footprint, just 38X38 centimeters, allows it to fit easily into the existing surgical workflow across a range of surgical specialties.

“When science wants to solve a problem, it often turns to nature. We took our inspiration from the human arm, the greatest surgical tool in history,” said Luke Hares, chief technology officer at CMR. “Whereas traditional industrial robotic arms are large and the wrists have three joints, our robot is the same size as a human arm and has four wrist joints, giving the surgeon an unprecedented level of freedom to operate on the patient from whatever angle they want, versatility, and reach.”

“In Versius, we've designed a next-generation robotic system that's sufficiently versatile that it can help perform the vast majority of laparoscopic cases,” said Martin Frost, CEO of CMR Surgical. “The ground-breaking design, coupled with genuine affordability, means that patients everywhere have the potential to benefit from the advantages of minimal access surgery. Versius is a great example of British innovation, and its launch represents a pivotal moment in the next chapter of surgery and patient care.”

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