Dr. Marc Brand and Dr. Theodore Saclarides, surgeons at Rush University Medical Center, successfully completed three laparoscopic hemi-colectomies using the laparoscopic camera controller. FreeHand has been used in Europe and has application in a variety of surgical specialties, but in the US these were the first procedures of this type to be performed. Dr. Brand operated the FreeHand system during the procedures.
FreeHand is a 15 lb. robotic device which gives surgeons direct control of the laparoscopic camera with the help of a small, lightweight hands-free controller worn on the surgeon’s head. Gentle head movements permits precise scope positioning. It also provides faster surgery and a rock-steady image after a very rapid learning curve.
After using FreeHand, Dr. Brand said, 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. 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; returning control of the camera view to the surgeon allows for the image to lead the procedure instead of follow it. It’s like having an extra pair of hands. The image was excellent and very steady and no one had to be in the O.R. just to hold the ‘scope.
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 US are seeing the benefits of FreeHand in a variety of surgical specialties.
