Medtronic (NYSE: MDT) announced today that it received CE mark for its LigaSure vessel sealing technology for use with its Hugo system.
LigaSure RAS (robotic-assisted surgery) expands the Hugo surgical robot’s capabilities for gynecologic, general and urologic procedures in Europe.
Medtronic says LigaSure’s uses include more than 35 million procedures across more than 65 countries over the last two decades. As the first-ever robotic-driven LigaSure instrument, it marks a new era for the technology, the company said in a news release.
Powered by the Valleylab FT10 energy platform and for use exclusively with Hugo, the LigaSure RAS Maryland instrument offers sealing and cutting for vessels, thick tissue and lymphatics up to and including 7 mm in diameter. The device reliably seals vessels in approximately two seconds while minimizing thermal spread to surrounding tissue.
Medtronic said CE mark comes amid growing momentum for Hugo, which currently spans 30 countries on five continents. It remains investigational in the U.S., although Medtronic has it under review with the FDA for a urology indication. The medtech giant expects to enter the U.S. market later this fiscal year, followed by planned expansions into hernia and gynecology.
“Today, with CE Mark for LigaSure™ RAS, Medtronic is fulfilling a promise to customers to integrate our trusted vessel-sealing technology onto the Hugo™ RAS system,” said Matt Anderson,SVP and president of the Surgical business at Medtronic. “More than fulfilling a commitment, this regulatory approval is a big step forward as we continue to shape the future of surgery with surgical teams who share our passion and commitment to deliver the best possible care to every patient.”
