Evaluation of Versius CMR in Pelvic Surgery: Multicenter Setup and Initial Outcomes

Overview

This multicenter retrospective study assessed the Versius robotic surgical system in 42 pelvic procedures, demonstrating feasibility and safety across urologic, gynecologic, and general surgical interventions. No intraoperative conversions occurred, with low complication rates and adaptable operating room setups reported.

Background

Robotic surgery offers improved clinical outcomes such as reduced blood loss and shorter hospital stays compared to laparoscopy or open surgery. The da Vinci system has dominated the market but is costly, prompting the development of new platforms like Versius after patent expiry. Versius features an open console, modular bedside units, and ergonomic hand controllers without pedal controls, potentially enhancing communication and versatility in the operating room. Despite preclinical feasibility data, clinical outcomes and procedural specifics for Versius in pelvic surgery remain limited.

Data Highlights

Key Findings

• 42 pelvic surgeries performed using Versius across urology, gynecology, and general surgery with no intraoperative conversions.
• Radical prostatectomy was the most frequent procedure, with 22 cases including oncological indications.
• Low postoperative complication rate: two Clavien II and one Clavien IIIb events reported.
• System malfunctions requiring reactivation occurred in only two cases, indicating reliable device performance.
• Operating room setup was adaptable to different pelvic procedures, with trocar placement adjustments made in select cases.
• Positive margin rates in prostatectomy varied; one biochemical recurrence noted at 9-11 months follow-up.

Clinical Implications

The Versius system demonstrates safe and effective application in diverse pelvic surgeries with minimal complications and no need for conversion. Its modular design and open console facilitate flexible operating room configurations and may improve team communication. Surgeons transitioning from other robotic platforms can adapt with structured training, supporting Versius as a viable alternative in pelvic robotic surgery.

Conclusion

This first focused series on pelvic surgery with the Versius robotic system confirms its feasibility, safety, and adaptability across multiple specialties. Continued data collection will further define its clinical role and long-term outcomes.

References

1. Intuitive Surgical/da Vinci System -- Market and Cost Context
2. Versius System Features and Training -- Clinical Introduction
3. Preclinical Feasibility Studies of Versius -- Early Evidence
4. Versius Robotic Surgical System Registry -- Anticipated Outcomes
5. Radical Prostatectomy Positive Margin Data -- Comparative Outcomes
6. Sparse Reports on Versius Single Indications -- Literature Context