LivsMed today introduced Stark, its new telesurgery-native robotic system for remote surgery in partnership with Sovato.
San Diego–based LivsMed says it aims to fundamentally shift the remote surgery landscape. It hopes to make the medium accessible and affordable for hospitals and patients worldwide.
In partnership with Sovato, the companies jointly demonstrated the viability of the approach as part of a feasibility wet-lab study. The session, spanning a 2,000-mile distance between Santa Barbara, California, and Chicago, showcased the Stark robotic system in tandem with Sovato’s remote surgery and procedure platform.
LivsMed develops the ArtiSential line of handheld robotic instruments, offering the dexterity of robotic surgery at a fraction of the cost. The company says its instruments often provide a greater range of motion than traditional robotic instruments. Stark utilizes this core technology with 90 degrees of articulation, offering superior agility and a small footprint. The company says this makes it viable for facilities unable to accommodate larger robotic systems.
The July 1 demonstration showcased Stark’s long-distance surgery capabilities combined with Sovato’s workflows, telepresence and network. Dr. Yuman Fong, Dr. Yanhee Woo and Dr. Max Hazeltine of City of Hope National Medical Center completed multiple procedures remotely on a porcine model. Procedures included a cholecystectomy, gastrojejunostomy, and partial liver resection.
“Democratizing robotic surgery isn’t just about technology,” said Jung Joo Lee, CEO of LivsMed. “It’s about making it affordable, accessible, and practical for every hospital and every patient, no matter where they are. With Stark, we are not only challenging the status quo but also building the foundation for a future where advanced surgical care is truly within reach for all.”
For the first time in over two decades, wonder over telesurgery is building again:
Intuitive’s Miller: User need, not tech, should drive telesurgery adoption
Top surgical robotics companies agree on remote surgery guidelines
