Frequently Asked Questions What procedures are suitable for using EndoAssist? Using EndoAssist how do I change the position of the endoscope during the operation? As the system is controlled by head movements, does this mean that I can’t otherwise move my head during the operation? When using EndoAssist am I constrained by cables, or otherwise restricted in my position around the operating table? Will EndoAssist work my existing endoscope and stack? I use a 30 degree scope for most of my procedures, can this be used with EndoAssist? What Range of Movement does the EndoAssist allow? How long does it take to set up the system for individual users? How long does it take to set up the system before the operation? We have a number of operating rooms used for minimal access surgery. How easy is it to move EndoAssist between them? How does EndoAssist maintain sterility in the surgical field? I sometimes need to clean the endoscope lens and so need to quickly withdraw it from the port. How can I quickly achieve this with EndoAssist? How does the system define and maintain the position of the entry point? Will using EndoAssist force me to change patient position, or the ports that I use? What are the running costs of the product, are there consumables involved? What regulatory approvals apply to the EndoAssist? What is the warranty duration on EndoAssist? Does the system require regular maintenance?

What procedures are suitable for using EndoAssist?
EndoAssist can be used to hold the endoscope in all minimally invasive procedures. The benefits that the system provides are especially evident in operations that require very accurate positioning of the scope e.g. minimally invasive mitral valve repair; and/or where the position must be maintained accurately for long periods of time e.g. endoscopic radical prostatectomy.

Using EndoAssist how do I change the position of the endoscope during the operation?
EndoAssist is programmed to detect and follow the movements of the surgeon’s head. The surgeon wears a lightweight headband fitted with an infrared emitter. The head position of the surgeon is detected by a receiver unit and converted into motion of the robot, so to move the view left, the surgeon simply glances to the left of the monitor and the camera pans round. To move the view up, the surgeon looks to the top of the monitor and the camera follows. Movement only occurs if the surgeon is simultaneously pressing a footswitch, thus allowing unrestricted head movements at all other times.

As the system is controlled by head movements, does this mean that I can’t otherwise move my head during the operation?
Not at all, movement of the endoscope only occurs when the surgeon presses the foot pedal, therefore allowing unrestricted head movements at all other times.

When using EndoAssist am I constrained by cables, or otherwise restricted in my position around the operating table?
The headband and emitter used with EndoAssist are wireless, so you are free to move around the table at will.

Will EndoAssist work my existing endoscope and stack?
EndoAssist has been designed to work with all commonly used 5mm and 10mm diameter endoscopes.

I use a 30 degree scope for most of my procedures, can this be used with EndoAssist?
EndoAssist is ideal for use with both zero and 30 degree endoscopes.

What Range of Movement does the EndoAssist allow?
The EndoAssist provides the widest range of movements to cope with the varying anatomy of your patient.

Pan movement: 350 degrees
Tilt movement: +90 to –45 degrees
Zoom length: 240mm

How long does it take to set up the system for individual users?
No user-specific setup is required to use EndoAssist.

How long does it take to set up the system before the operation?
It takes less than 2 minutes to set-up EndoAssist prior to surgery. Wheel the system into the operating room, plug in and switch on. The systems will automatically perform a self test, following which it is immediately available for use.

We have a number of operating rooms used for minimal access surgery. How easy is it to move EndoAssist between them?
Because the system is free-standing, one person can easily wheel it between operating rooms. Time consuming assembly or mounting to the operating table is not required.

How does EndoAssist maintain sterility in the surgical field?
The endoscope holding arm is detachable and should be sterilised along with your other surgical instruments. The EndoAssist boom is sufficiently high above the field that it generally does not require draping. However, a drape is available for purchase if required.

I sometimes need to clean the endoscope lens and so need to quickly withdraw it from the port. How can I quickly achieve this with EndoAssist?
The Quick Fit Laparoscope Mounting allows the surgeon to “snap-fit” the scope to the holding arm. Scope cleaning is therefore fast and simple.

How does the system define and maintain the position of the entry point?
EndoAssist includes laser-locators that enable the user to accurately position the goniometric point at the entry port. This ensures smooth scope movement.

Will using EndoAssist force me to change patient position, or the ports that I use?
The very large range of movement possible with EndoAssist accommodates the widest range of patient sizes and orientations: including morbidly obese patients and supine approaches. Because the holding-arm approaches from above, you will not need to change your camera port position when using the system.

What are the running costs of the product, are there consumables involved?
The running costs of EndoAssist are negligible. The only consumable items required are the Head Tracker batteries, a standard item available from most electrical stores.

What regulatory approvals apply to the EndoAssist?
The CE mark affixed to EndoAssist indicates compliance with the Medical Devices Directive 93/42/EEC. In the USA the product has received 510(k) clearance by the FDA for abdominal and thoracic applications. In many countries, specific approvals are required for use of medical devices in a particular procedure. Please check with Prosurgics or your local distributor for the regulatory position in your country.

What is the warranty duration on EndoAssist?
EndoAssist is supplied with a parts and labour warranty with a minimum of 12 months duration. Please check with Prosurgics or your local distributor for the terms of warranty applicable in your country. We recommend that you protect your investment by purchasing one of our Extended Warranty packages at time of purchasing your system.

Does the system require regular maintenance?
To ensure the safe and reliable operation of your EndoAssist, your system should be inspected by an accredited Prosurgics Service Agent twice per year.

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frequently asked questions

frequently asked questions

frequently asked questions

frequently asked questions

frequently asked questions

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