The Andrews Labor Government is partnering with St Vincent's in an Australian-first - to deliver better patient outcomes for Victorians needing neurosurgery with surgeons at the hospital now using a robotic exoscope.
Minster for Health Mary-Anne Thomas last week visited St Vincent's Hospital Melbourne to see the Modus V up close and meet the surgeons using the new technology to deliver the safest care to patients needing brain or spinal surgery.
The newly purchased Synaptive Modus V enables surgeons and the entire team in the operating theatre to see a magnified 3D image of the surgical field in hi-def, real time 4K video during microsurgical procedures on the brain and spinal cord.
With voice control functionality allowing for hands-free operation surgeons can maintain a comfortable position while they operate - decreasing physical strain and fatigue during long surgeries, ultimately leading to better patient outcomes.
This exoscope also helps optimise the ability to undertake surgical procedures with precision enabling surgeons to take a safer and less invasive surgical approach - ultimately enhancing patient safety by decreasing the risk of infection, lowering the risk of complication, leading to shorter operating times and improving recovery time.
Inspired by technology originally created for the International Space Station the Modus V will support hundreds of patients each year and ultimately lead to better health outcomes for patients.
Ten surgeons at St Vincent's have already been trained to use the equipment and the hospital become a global teaching site for the Asia-Pacific where they will train surgeons from around Australia and overseas.
While St Vincent's is currently using the technology to enhance their neurosurgery capabilities there is the possibility of using the technology in other types of surgery down the line.
The Labor Government partnered with St Vincent's Hospital Foundation to purchase the new robotic exoscope to ensure patients continue to get the best possible care with the latest equipment.
As stated by Minister for Health Mary-Anne Thomas
"This new exoscope is bringing our surgical capability into the future and providing Victorians with the cutting-edge precision and safety they deserve."
"We're the first in Australia to have this and we will now teach surgeons from around the world on how to use it -cementing Victoria as one of the leading health and medical research capitals of the world."
"With the Modus V helping surgeons to complete operations faster, without compromising patient safety, more Victorians will be able to get their surgery sooner."
