U-M researchers invent low-cost robot

Editor's Note

Researchers at the University of Michigan (U-M), Ann Arbor, have invented a new $500 surgical instrument that is vying to replace the $2 million deVinci robot for minimally invasive surgery.

FlexDex, a mechanical platform that mounts to the surgeon’s arm, enables the tip of an instrument to mimic the direction of movement of the surgeon’s hand.

Transitioning from the daVinci robot to FlexDex is similar to the transition from mainframe computers to smartphones, the researchers say.

The FlexDex needle driver has been used in several laparoscopic and thoracic procedures, and soon will be used in many procedures, including hernia repairs, hysterectomies, and prostatectomies at U-M.

FlexDex Surgical has begun shipping the FlexDex needle driver to institutions throughout the US and plans to release additional instruments for its platform in the coming year.

ANN ARBOR-In an era of spiraling health care cost concerns, a new $500 surgical instrument developed at the University of Michigan is vying to take the place of a $2 million robot for certain minimally invasive procedures.