The FDA has cleared the Stealth Autoguide system (Medtronic), which a press release reports is the first cranial robotic platform to integrate with Medtronic’s enabling technology portfolio to create an end-to-end procedural solution. The Stealth Autoguide Platform is a robotic guidance system intended for the spatial positioning and orientation of instrument holders or tool guides used in neurosurgical procedures.

The Stealth Autoguide Platform is cleared for biopsy procedures, stereoelectroencephalography (sEEG) depth electrode placement, and for the positioning of the Visualase bone anchor, which is used for catheter placement. These solutions are part of the company’s Surgical Synergy platform, which is designed to integrate Medtronic technologies to create consistent, predictable, and reproducible procedures.

Stealth Autoguide system integrates with StealthStation Image Guidance systems and the Midas Rex high-speed surgical drill platform. The navigation software is designed to optimise the surgical workflow, providing continuous real-time navigation and visual feedback on the robotic alignment for improved efficiency. The system provides visualisation throughout the entire procedure, even while drilling, with the ability to drill on the axis of a surgical plan.

P David Adelson (Barrow Neurological Institute, Phoenix Children’s Hospital, Phoenix, USA), says: “Medtronic continues to deliver on its commitment of developing innovative technologies that helps physicians seamlessly provide high-quality care for cranial and other procedures. The precision provided by the Stealth Autoguide system will help my clinical team accomplish unique surgical scenarios with increased accuracy.”

Dave Anderson, vice president and general manager, Enabling Technologies, which is part of the Restorative Therapies Group at Medtronic, comments: “The Stealth Autoguide platform provides surgeons and operating room staff with robotic-assisted positioning and trajectory guidance for cranial procedures confirming consistent, repeatable, and accurate alignment to their surgical plans. The Stealth Autoguide platform showcases Medtronic’s commitment to advancing care and delivering the best outcomes to the most patients possible through our Surgical Synergy platform.”