2024 has been a year of remarkable growth and impact for R2 Surgical. By providing pre-owned da Vinci robots and accessories, we’ve empowered hospitals, clinics, and educational institutions worldwide to adopt robotic-assisted surgery. From groundbreaking veterinary procedures to expanding access to advanced technology in conflict zones, we’ve shown that innovation and affordability can go hand in hand. Here’s a closer look at our key achievements.
1. Advancing Veterinary Medicine: First U.S. Robotic-Assisted Gastropexy at Cornell
R2 Surgical is proud to have supported Dr. Nicole Buote and her team at Cornell University College of Veterinary Medicine in achieving a historic milestone: performing the first robotic-assisted gastropexy in the United States. Using a pre-owned da Vinci Si-e robotic system supplied by R2 Surgical, Cornell expanded the possibilities of veterinary medicine.
- The First Robotic-Assisted Gastropexy: This surgery, performed on Finley, a Great Dane at risk of gastric torsion, demonstrated how precision technology from human surgery could be adapted for animal care. Robotic-assisted techniques allowed for smaller incisions, reduced pain, and faster recovery times, revolutionizing the standard for veterinary surgery.
- Educational Impact: Cornell’s da Vinci system has become a centerpiece for teaching veterinary students about robotic-assisted procedures. The system prepares future veterinarians to incorporate robotics into their practices, ensuring advanced care becomes the norm in veterinary medicine.
- Community Engagement: Finley’s story didn’t end with surgery. After a smooth recovery, Finley was adopted, showcasing how veterinary advancements can benefit both animals and their communities.
Cornell’s success is featured in the upcoming documentary Robots to the Rescue, which premieres in early 2025. The film, previewed at the Veterinary Endoscopy Society Annual Conference, highlights how pre-owned surgical robots are opening new frontiers in veterinary care.
2. Ramping Up Robotic Surgery in Ukraine
Medical Plaza Clinic, Dnipro
Before partnering with R2 Surgical, Ukraine had limited access to robotic surgery. Most facilities lacked functional systems, and logistical challenges prevented the adoption of advanced technology. In 2024, R2 Surgical worked with Medical Plaza Clinic in Dnipro to establish a robust robotic-assisted surgery program under extraordinary conditions.
- Addressing Complex Challenges: The clinic’s outdated da Vinci S system was malfunctioning, and their engineers lacked the tools to repair it. Supplies were sourced from unreliable channels, and the conflict in Ukraine restricted access to training and technical support. R2 Surgical delivered a pre-owned da Vinci Si system and provided video-guided setup and written instructions, enabling the clinic to resume surgeries without requiring travel.
- Building a Lifeline in a Conflict Zone: Importing the system to Ukraine required navigating extensive bureaucracy and mitigating risks associated with operating in an active conflict zone. Despite these hurdles, R2 Surgical ensured seamless delivery and support.
- Impact: Today, Medical Plaza Clinic performs 70–90 robotic surgeries annually in General Surgery, Urology, and Gynecology, bringing life-saving care to a region in need.
Lviv Hospital
Lviv Hospital partnered with R2 Surgical to enhance its capabilities with a used da Vinci Si system. The hospital’s journey, which began with a da Vinci S system in 2021, has solidified its reputation as a leader in robotic surgery in Ukraine.
- Specialized Care: The da Vinci systems have enabled over 145 robotic surgeries, including colon and rectal surgery, gynecology, and pediatric procedures. Lviv has become a reference point for other institutions, sharing expertise and hosting educational events like robotic surgery masterclasses.
- Driving National Impact: With R2 Surgical’s support, Lviv Hospital has spearheaded the creation of the Association of Robotic Surgery in Ukraine, fostering collaboration and education across the country.
3. Expanding Surgical Robotics in Venezuela
Instituto Médico La Floresta in Venezuela enhanced its surgical capabilities with a used da Vinci Si system purchased through R2 Surgical.
- Improving Outcomes: Surgeons at La Floresta report smaller incisions, less postoperative pain, and faster recovery times. These advancements have significantly raised the standard of care for their patients.
- Overcoming Logistical Challenges: R2 Surgical’s proactive support addressed equipment malfunctions and provided the hospital with reliable instruments for 50 procedures, ensuring uninterrupted operations.
- Empowering Staff: Training programs prepared the biomedical team to handle routine maintenance and minor repairs, enhancing operational independence and reducing downtime.
By integrating robotic surgery, La Floresta has attracted new medical talent and strengthened its role as a premier healthcare provider in the region.
4. Introducing the Endoscope Buyback Program
In 2024, R2 Surgical launched the Endoscope Buyback Program, enabling facilities to replace malfunctioning da Vinci Xi endoscopes affordably and sustainably.
- How It Works: Facilities can trade in broken endoscopes and receive discounted replacements, including models like the REF 470026 (8mm, 0-degree) and REF 470057 (8mm, 30-degree).
- Why Endoscopes Break: Common issues such as fluid infiltration, physical damage, or improper cleaning often render endoscopes unusable. The program addresses these challenges by offering cost-effective replacements without the hassle of repairs.
- Affordable and Sustainable: This initiative helps facilities maintain high surgical standards while reducing waste and promoting sustainability.
5. Inspiring Future Innovators: Girl Power Event
At the Imagination Station Girl Power event in Toledo, OH, R2 Surgical showcased a pre-owned da Vinci Si system to inspire young girls to explore careers in STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Art, and Math).
- Interactive Demonstrations: Attendees engaged with surgical robots and simulators, learning how robotic technologies improve patient outcomes. Participants also discovered the behind-the-scenes engineering and programming that power robotic systems.
- Fostering Careers in STEM: By showcasing robotics in action, R2 Surgical encouraged girls to envision futures in STEM fields, from biomedical engineering to robotic surgery.
- Community Engagement: The event emphasized making science fun and accessible, ensuring that future professionals are inspired by the possibilities in robotics and healthcare.
By investing in the next generation, R2 Surgical is paving the way for continued advancements in robotic surgery.
6. Recognition at the Surgical Robotics Industry Awards
This year, R2 Surgical was named a finalist in the "Innovative Start-Up" category at the 2024 Surgical Robotics Industry Awards, sponsored by Surgical Robotics Technology.
- Award Significance: This recognition celebrates our efforts to make robotic-assisted surgery more accessible through pre-owned surgical robots, innovative programs like flexible leasing, and a commitment to sustainability.
- A Competitive Field: Competing alongside industry leaders like AiM Medical Robotics and Noah Medical, our nomination underscores the growing impact of secondhand robotics in reshaping global healthcare.
- Voting and Community Support: Although we did not win the award, we are grateful for the support of our community and industry peers, who continue to champion our mission of improving surgical access worldwide.
7. Society of Robotic Surgery Annual Meeting
R2 Surgical attended the Society of Robotic Surgery Annual Meeting in Orlando, FL, connecting with surgeons, engineers, and educators from around the world.
- Promoting Accessibility: We highlighted the benefits of used da Vinci Xi and Si systems and how affordable solutions like our buyback program and leasing options enable more facilities to adopt robotic-assisted surgery.
- Engaging with Young Professionals: By engaging with residents, fellows, and new faculty, R2 Surgical reinforced its commitment to equipping the next generation with the tools they need to succeed in robotic surgery.
- Expanding Partnerships: The event fostered collaborations with other leaders in robotic surgery, further advancing innovation and accessibility across the field.
8. Green Program Expansion
R2 Surgical expanded its Green Program this year, making it easier for facilities to recycle da Vinci supplies and adopt sustainable practices.
- Streamlined Process: Facilities can ship expired or unused surgical supplies to R2 Surgical for responsible recycling. We provide prepaid shipping labels and ensure proper disposal or reuse of components.
- Commitment to Sustainability: This initiative reflects our dedication to reducing waste and environmental impact, aligning healthcare with sustainability goals.
- Widespread Adoption: More facilities are recognizing the value of sustainability in healthcare, with R2 Surgical leading the charge in the robotic surgery industry.
R2 Surgical’s 2024 milestones demonstrate the power of secondhand surgical robots in transforming healthcare globally. We thank our clients, partners, and supporters for making these achievements possible and look forward to building on our success in 2025!
