CASE STUDY: Irimi Group & Medical Plaza Clinic, Dnipro, Ukraine

Client: Irimi Group & Medical Plaza Clinic
R2 Surgical Partnership Since: 2024
Robotic System Acquired: Pre-owned da Vinci Si

Overview

In 2024, Irimi Group & Medical Plaza Clinic in Dnipro, Ukraine, partnered with R2 Surgical to revitalize their robotic-assisted surgery program. This collaboration aimed to address challenges with their existing da Vinci S robot while enhancing their surgical offerings in General Surgery, Urology, and Gynecology. With the support of R2 Surgical, the clinic successfully navigated technical, logistical, and operational challenges, positioning themselves as leaders in robotic-assisted surgery in Ukraine.

Challenges

• Malfunctioning Robotic System:
  The clinic’s da Vinci S robot was no longer functioning reliably, and their in-house engineers lacked the tools to perform diagnostics and comprehensive repairs.

• Irregular Instrumentation Supply:
  The clinic relied on non-traditional channels like eBay to source instruments and disposables, leading to inconsistent supply and quality.

• Limited Access to Training:
  Due to the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, their engineers could not travel internationally, limiting access to technical training and support.

• Complex Registration Process:
  Importing and registering the da Vinci Si system required navigating a lengthy and bureaucratic process.

Solution

R2 Surgical provided a tailored approach to address these challenges:

• Replacement and Repair Support:
  R2 Surgical supplied a critical replacement part for the clinic’s existing da Vinci S robot, allowing operations to continue while preparing for the Si system.

• Flexible Instrumentation Options:
  While the clinic requested instruments and disposables, R2 Surgical guided them on sourcing these independently to manage their procurement risks.

• Remote Training and Guidance:
  Comprehensive written instructions and remote support via video conferencing were provided to help the clinic set up and handle their new da Vinci Si system.

• Starter Package for Enhanced Operations:
  A starter package was designed to cover 100 procedures, including options for substitute instruments and repair/rechip services, ensuring smooth and cost-effective operations.

Impact

The partnership between Irimi Group, Medical Plaza Clinic, and R2 Surgical has delivered significant outcomes:

• Restored Robotic Surgery Program:
  The clinic resumed robotic-assisted procedures, performing 70-90 surgeries annually across General Surgery, Urology, and Gynecology.

• Operational Continuity:
  The availability of flexible support and guidance from R2 Surgical ensured uninterrupted services despite regional challenges.

• Enhanced Precision and Efficiency:
  The advanced capabilities of the da Vinci Si system have allowed surgeons to perform more complex and precise procedures.

Future Goals

Irimi Group & Medical Plaza Clinic plans to:

• Expand Surgical Volume:
  Increase the number and complexity of robotic-assisted surgeries to serve a growing patient base.

• Upgrade Technology:
  Transition to a da Vinci Xi system within 2-3 years, once financial and logistical conditions permit.

• Foster Local Expertise:
  Train their lead surgeon, Dr. Robert Molchanov, to act as a local service provider for da Vinci systems in Ukraine, reducing downtime for robotic surgery centers nationwide.

Key Takeaways

• Adaptability in Challenging Environments:
  R2 Surgical’s tailored solutions addressed the clinic’s unique challenges, enabling them to overcome operational and logistical obstacles.

• Commitment to Quality:
  The provision of a high-quality pre-owned da Vinci Si system and expert support empowered the clinic to deliver advanced surgical care.

• Strategic Collaboration for Growth:
  The partnership has positioned Irimi Group & Medical Plaza Clinic as a leader in robotic-assisted surgery, paving the way for future advancements in Ukraine.

This case highlights the transformative impact of strategic collaboration, tailored solutions, and expert support in driving innovation and excellence in healthcare.