Levita Magnetics reports world’s first dual-system procedure

By Jim Hammerand | December 13, 2024

Levita Magnetics Inc. this week claimed that a surgeon has performed the world’s first procedure using two different surgical robots.

The surgical robotics developer said the operation shows how platforms from different manufacturers might deliver better patient outcomes when used together. Dr. Jeffrey Cadeddu at the University of Texas Southwestern Medical Center used the Levita Magnetics MARS (magnetic-assisted robotic surgery) system with the Intuitive Surgical da Vinci SP (single-port) system for a prostatectomy on a human patient.

“The procedure, a prostate-removal surgery, utilized Levita’s MARS platform to maneuver internal organs using its proprietary magnetic positioning system, enabling precise retraction of tissue with the goal of enhancing visualization to preserve nerves involved in sexual function and urinary continence,” stated the company. “The neurovascular bundles responsible for erectile function and urinary continence are located adjacent to the prostate gland.”

“The Da Vinci SP robot provided the single-port capabilities required for this complex urological surgery,” it explained. “By combining the two systems, the surgical team showcased a glimpse into the future of robotic-assisted surgery, where multiple systems complement one another to deliver optimal results.”

The procedure showed “the versatility of Levita’s MARS platform,” said Cadeddu. “The magnetic component of MARS added significant value by improving precision and enabling improved access to key areas of the pelvis.”

More about the MARS system

Levita Magnetics said it designed the MARS system to use magnetic forces to control an instrument inside the patient.

The company’s first-generation Magnetic Surgical System (MSS) won de novo approval in 2015 from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration for single-incision laparoscopic cholecystectomy. A magnetic controller placed on the skin of the patient can connect with a detachable grasper inside the patient’s abdomen to hold and manipulate the gallbladder. This leaves the incision site open for access and visualization, said Levita.

In 2023, it secured FDA 510(k) clearance for its updated MARS system, which now has two collaborative, surgeon-controlled robotic arms. One of those arms can hold and operate the magnetic controller, which was previously operated by an assistant.

The second arm holds and controls an endoscope with a camera for visualization inside the patient. This leaves the surgeon’s hands-free to perform procedures with laparoscopic instruments.

The MARS system also allows the surgeon to control the robotic arms with hand and foot controls, or by guiding the arms by hand.

Levita Magnetics said the technology allows for better visualization, fewer operating room personnel needed for each procedure, and fewer incisions. This results in less pain, less scarring, and faster recoveries.

The company claimed that it is the only device developer with FDA clearance for magnetic technology that reduces the number of incisions for less-invasive surgery.

Levita Magnetics to expand access to robot-assisted surgery

“This procedure demonstrated that the MARS platform is both an independent surgical solution and also a powerful enhancement to traditional console-based robotic systems,” said Dr. Alberto Rodriguez-Navarro founder and CEO of Levita Magnetics. “By combining technologies, we’re creating a new standard for surgery that prioritizes patient safety, and better outcomes.”

If the dual-system approach takes off with surgeons, it would give a lift to Levita. Intuitive Surgical is the world’s leading surgical robotics developer, with more systems placed than any other company.

In October 2024, Levita Magnetics said it conducted the world’s first surgical operations combining a 3D camera and augmented reality (AR) headset. That approach could help usher in the future of telesurgery and telementoring, expanding access to minimally invasive, robot-assisted surgeries for patients in remote locations — as well as public hospitals and ambulatory surgical centers.

Editor’s note: This article was syndicated from The Robot Report sibling site Medical Design & Outsourcing.