CMR Surgical launches new global metrics-based training programme for Versius

~ New seven-step, data-led training programme, developed in conjunction with surgical teams

~ Shorter learning curve reduces training time, while improving standardisation in surgical care

~ Gynaecological surgical team at Cardiff & Vale University Health Board becomes the first to complete Versius training through new pathway, ahead of global rollout

~ New seven-step, data-led training programme, developed in conjunction with surgical teams

~ Shorter learning curve reduces training time, while improving standardisation in surgical care

~ Gynaecological surgical team at Cardiff & Vale University Health Board becomes the first to complete Versius training through new pathway, ahead of global rollout

CMR Surgical  the global surgical robotics company – has today announced the launch of a new, global metrics-based training programme for the Versius® Surgical Robotic System.

This structured and data-led training pathway has been developed directly with consultation from surgical teams using Versius.

The new seven-step programme is focused on surgeons and the wider surgical team achieving key competencies at each stage of the pathway to ensure standardisation in surgical skills. The Gynaecology team at Cardiff & Vale University Health Board in Wales were the first team to be trained on the new pathway, which will now be rolled out globally.

The training pathway draws on cutting-edge technology including Versius Trainer, the Versius eLearning platform, and Versius Virtual Reality. Modules include hand controller training, use of the Versius console, simulation training and in-person observation from a surgical preceptor, and supervision of cases via remote tele-mentoring.

Skill levels are assessed using data-driven metrics and benchmarking, captured through the training technology tools and standard observational data from supervisors and the CMR Technical Skills team.

This data enables personalised feedback and will lead to shorter learning curves, reducing the time and costs for teams to become proficient. Access to this data can help to standardise surgeries, aiming to improve outcomes for patients.

Mark Slack, Chief Medical Officer, CMR Surgical said: “We are really proud of this comprehensive new training programme, which is a fantastic demonstration of our close partnership with and commitment to the hospitals and surgical teams that are and will be using Versius. We know that surgeons want a data-led, personalised approach to training, and by re-launching our training programme for new robotic surgeons, we are confident that we are helping to increase the proficiency of surgeons and standardising surgical care for patients.”

“We are so grateful to the Gynaecology team at Cardiff & Vale for their enthusiasm and dedication in being the first to complete the new training and are excited to see this data-based programme in action with many other surgical teams around the world. We want Versius to deliver the best results in terms of outcomes for patients, and that means doing whatever we can to give surgeons the highest quality of training and support.”

The Gynaecology team at Cardiff and Vale were offered the chance to trial the new training programme following the announcement in March by NHS Wales of the all-Wales National Robotic Assisted Surgery Programme, using Versius.

The programme was introduced as a measure to improve outcomes for cancer patients by increasing the number of patients across Wales who have access to less-invasive, minimal access surgery (MAS).

Dr Aarti Sharma, Consultant Gynaecological Oncological Surgeon at Cardiff and Vale University Health Board said: “Being the first team in the world to trial the new metrics-led training programme has really added to the sense of being a pioneer in bringing surgical robotics to patients in Wales. As we treat our first cases, I am proud to see the excitement and confidence of the entire surgical team to start our robotic surgery programme. This confidence has no doubt been the result of each individual’s journey through this comprehensive new training pathway, and the support and partnership that we have received from the CMR team. Introducing a new way of working can be daunting but knowing that we have the gold standard in training has been both refreshing and inspiring.”

ENDS

The Versius® Surgical Robotic System

Versius® resets expectations of robotic surgery. Versius fits into virtually any operating room set-up and integrates seamlessly into existing workflows, increasing the likelihood of robotic minimal access surgery (MAS). The small, portable and modular design of Versius allows the surgeon to only use the number of arms needed for a given procedure.

Biomimicking the human arm, Versius gives surgeons the choice of optimised port placement alongside the dexterity and accuracy of small fully-wristed instruments. With 3D HD vision, easy-to adopt instrument control and a choice of ergonomic working positions, the open surgeon console has the potential to reduce stress and fatigue and allows for clear communication with the surgical team. By thinking laparoscopically and operating robotically with Versius, patients, surgeons and healthcare professionals can all benefit from the value that robotic MAS brings.

But it’s more than just a robot. Versius captures meaningful data with its wider digital ecosystem to support a surgeon’s continuous learning. Through the Versius Connect app, Versius Trainer and CMR clinical registry, Versius unleashes a wealth of insights to ultimately improve surgical care.

About CMR Surgical Limited

CMR Surgical (CMR) is a global medical devices company dedicated to transforming surgery with Versius®, a next-generation surgical robot.

Headquartered in Cambridge, United Kingdom, CMR is committed to working with surgeons, surgical teams and hospital partners, to provide an optimal tool to make robotic minimal access surgery universally accessible and affordable. With Versius, we are on a mission to redefine the surgical robotics market with practical, innovative technology and data that can improve surgical care.

Founded in 2014, CMR Surgical is private limited company backed by an international shareholder base.

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