Replies to post #20362 on Titan Medical Inc (TMDIF)

[scalpel]

You cannot compare operative times for the two procedures; there was significant editing on both sides of the screen. Also, the amount and quality of the intra-adominal adhesions were more significant on the straight laparoscopic side then on the robotic side.

The technique used for the robotic side was not an accepted technique, the details of which are beyond the scope of this board. It does not reflect adversely on the DaVinci.

One CAN tack using the robot, since the multiple ports, including accessory reports, allows the use of standard straight stick instruments, such as a tacker.

I agree with you that the straight stick laparoscopic repair was much more aesthetically pleasing. I know Karl Leblanc personally; he is a very talented surgeon.

In general, the da Vinci robot will add between $500-$1,000 per case.

[Daktari]

There are different opinions on this. The tacks can hurt and cost much more than suture. Closing the fascia with suture from inside the abdomen than reinforcing with mesh using sutures is a more natural repair and better to me. No studies to back it up. To new. Aesthetics inside abdomen have nothing to do with the repair quality. Tactile feedback not needed. Time will tell. JMHO.