

US-based Intuitive Surgical has secured a CE Mark for the da Vinci X, its new robotic-assisted system.
The firm intends to provide cost-effective options to surgeons and hospitals after launching the new system. It offers access to the firm's portfolio of robotic-assisted surgical technologies, support, services and solutions.
Intuitive Surgical chief executive officer Dr Gary Guthart said: “Our surgeon, hospital and healthcare customers around the world told us that robotic-assisted surgery matters for their programmes and their patients while underscoring the importance of providing a choice from a clinical, technological and cost standpoint.
"The da Vinci X provides a lower-cost solution to meet the needs of customers who want a choice in price points while offering access to many of our recent innovations.”
da Vinci X's vision cart and surgeon consoles are similar to that of da Vinci Xi system, which allows the addition of advanced capabilities and an option for upgrade.
Intuitive Surgical US sales senior vice-president Henry Charlton said: “The da Vinci X system was designed to expand access to the benefits that robotic-assisted surgery delivers to patients, surgeons and hospitals.
“We are pleased to offer this new system in Europe and look forward to doing so in the US once we receive FDA clearance.”
The product allows optimised and focused-quadrant surgery, as well as operational efficiency using voice and laser guidance via set-up technology.
It features flexible port placement, 3D digital optics, and drape design and lightweight, fully integrated endoscope.
Image: da Vinci X Surgical System from Intuitive Surgical. Photo: courtesy of Intuitive Surgical Inc.