Rush University Medical Center and surgical robotics company Prosurgics announce today the completion of the first colorectal surgeries in the U.S. using the FreeHand® laparoscopic camera controller.

Surgeons Dr. Marc Brand and Dr. Theodore Saclarides at Rush University Medical Center in Chicago successfully completed three laparoscopic hemicolectomies using the laparoscopic camera controller.  A laparoscopic hemicolectomy is a minimally invasive procedure in which a large portion of the colon is removed using small incisions. The camera scope allows the surgeon to see inside the body without a large incision.

FreeHand is a 15 pound robotic device that gives surgeons direct control of the laparoscopic camera via a small, lightweight hands-free controller worn on the surgeon’s head. Gentle head movements permit precise scope positioning.  It provides a rock-steady image and faster surgery after a very rapid learning curve.

“A laparoscopic colectomy is uniquely challenging in that a wide field of view is required, from the ribs to the pelvis. FreeHand provided visual coverage of the entire area,” said Brand. “It also gave me control so that I did not have to interrupt dissection to reposition the camera, or tell a person holding the camera what to do.  It’s like having an extra pair of hands.”

Although FreeHand is used widely in Europe, and has application in a variety of surgical specialties, these were the first procedures of this type to be performed in the U.S.  Dr. Brand operated the FreeHand system during the procedures, which took place on June 22.

Bill Perry, President of Prosurgics Inc., said,” We are delighted to have done these advanced cases at this outstanding medical center and that FreeHand performed so well. FreeHand makes procedures quicker and less stressful, and is a great teaching tool as well. A growing number of leading centers across the U.S. are seeing the benefits of FreeHand in a variety of surgical specialties.”