CMR Surgical's Versius system launched in Germany

CMR Surgical has launched its Versius Surgical Robotic System in Germany. Klinikum Chemnitz - a public hospital based in Saxony - is the first German hospital to install it. 

The system has now been used in over 1000 clinical cases across Europe, Australia and India. Versius will be used by Klinikum Chemnitz in laparoscopic (minimal access or keyhole) procedures. The hospital will also undertake an early-stage clinical programme in partnership with international experts to explore the use of Versius in thoracics. 

Introduction into Germany marks an important milestone for CMR, as one of the largest surgical robotics markets in Europe. The country is renowned for early adoption and development of cutting-edge medtech innovations and last year the government confirmed €3 billion funding for hospitals to boost their digitalisation – including introducing more surgical robotics. 

Per Vegard Nerseth, chief executive officer of CMR said: “This launch into Germany showcases Versius’ value to one of the most highly held health care systems in the world. We are excited to install our first system today at one of Germany’s most forward-thinking hospitals. Germany is a market leader in Europe and paves the way for us to further accelerate our roll out of Versius across a number of new markets in Europe in the coming months.” 

Professor Dr Luz Mirrow, chief physician of general and visceral surgery at Klinikum Chemnitz, added: “At Klinikum Chemnitz we are proud to be able to say that we are leading the way in adopting new medical technologies to improve patient outcomes, and the installation of Versius supports this position. We are thrilled to be able to work closely on a clinical programme with CMR to significantly boost uptake of robotic MAS in the country.” 

Laparoscopic procedures are associated with a range of patient benefits; however, many are highly complex and when performed manually, without the assistance of robotics, they can place a huge physical demand on surgeons. Versius was designed with ergonomics in mind to help reduce stress and fatigue for surgeons.