Tampa General Hospital (TGH) and the University of South Florida have partnered with Medical Microinstruments (MMI) to introduce the Symani Surgical System, a robotic technology, to support lymphatic surgery at TGH.
TGH stated that this will be the first and only technology of its kind available in the Southeastern US, aimed at enhancing patient outcomes in highly complex procedures involving delicate anatomy.
The Symani Surgical System by MMI is specifically engineered to address the intricacies of microsurgery and supermicrosurgery, enabling surgeons to perform procedures on tiny vessels and nerves as small as 0.2 millimetres in diameter.
Its advanced features include smaller robotic components paired with enhanced controls, allowing for precise suturing and improved surgical outcomes.
The technology offers a less invasive option for reconstructive and lymphedema treatments. Patients benefit from reduced vessel trauma and require fewer additional procedures.
Additionally, the system accelerates the development of surgeons’ microsurgical skills, leading to higher success rates and fewer adverse events.
TGH president and CEO John Couris said: “At Tampa General Hospital, we’ve invested in the latest technologies and recruited best-in-class providers to make Florida the destination for innovation in health care.
“Now, with the support of Governor Ron DeSantis and our state leaders, we’re opening doors to new partnerships and introducing more of the world’s best technologies in health care to Florida. Because of these efforts, our patients can count on us for world-class care, better outcomes and a higher quality of life.”
The addition of the Symani Surgical System further expands Tampa General’s portfolio of advanced technologies supporting minimally invasive surgical procedures.
Earlier this year, TGH became the first hospital in the region to acquire and utilise the Intuitive da Vinci 5 Surgical System.
University of South Florida president Rhea Law said the agreement with MMI will strengthen USF Health and TGH’s position as one of the leading academic health systems in the nation.
Law added: “This unique and exciting partnership brings together the very best from both academic medicine and private industry to achieve progress in health care for Floridians who otherwise would not have access to this innovative surgical system in our state.
“We are grateful to Governor DeSantis and our state leaders for their support in helping us improve lives and build a healthier future.”