St Vincent’s Hospital, Melbourne has reached the significant landmark of 100 microsurgical procedures using the cutting-edge Symani Robotic Surgical System, developed by surgical robotics company MMI (Medical Micro Instruments).

The hospital was the first in the Asia-Pacific region to install the technology in August 2024 and remains the only location in Australia capable of carrying out complex, reconstructive surgery, aided by the Symani Robotic Surgical System.

The Symani system is a surgeon-operated robot, available through medical technology supplier, Device Technologies, that mimics a surgeon’s hand movements, enhances the ability to perform intricate operations on vessel structures that can be smaller than a millimetre, providing access to challenging anatomical areas.

The system’s tiny robotic instruments enhance precision during surgeries and handle delicate parts with increased dexterity, making it ideal for complex procedures, such as cancer reconstruction, nerve repair, soft tissue and small bone transfers, and lymphatic repair.

The technology equips surgeons with greater capabilities to perform complex reconstructive procedures, which previously may not have been possible, and has opened up a gateway for patients with no traditional surgical options.

Since its introduction at St Vincent’s, procedures have included; reconstructive surgery following head and neck cancer, breast cancer and sarcoma removal. As well as prophylactic lymphatic reconstruction post breast cancer surgery, to potentially reduce the risk of patients developing lymphoedema.

St Vincent’s has also established itself as the first site in APAC to begin a clinical robotic microsurgery program, cementing itself as a training and education hub for the whole of the southern hemisphere.

Lisa Kirsch, Director of Sales - Surgical & Hospital from Device Technologies, said, “Reaching 100 cases using the Symani system is a significant milestone within Australian healthcare - the job Eldon, Sophie and the team at St Vincent’s have done over the last 18 months is commendable. We were confident that the technology would be a game-changer for surgical precision and it’s been great to see the number of patients so far who have benefitted as a result.”