Medtronic, AMRA partner for robotic-assisted surgery

Medtronic Australasia and Australian Medical Robotics Academy (AMRA) have partnered to provide surgeons with training in robotic-assisted surgery (RAS).

A broad spectrum of training is being offered at AMRA’s facilities in Melbourne to enhance the knowledge and skill set in RAS, ranging from basic skills training to procedural training, and to more advanced and specialised areas in surgery.

Kevin Falzon, senior director for Surgical Robotics at Medtronic Asia Pacific, said, “Through this engagement, we will be collaborating closely with a network of experts that make up the faculty at AMRA, all of whom have significant experience in robotic surgery, training and education and who will be the first to deliver our educational content to trainees in Australia.”

The engagement reflects Medtronic’s continued investment in the robotic surgery space as it aims to train and enhance the skill sets of both the current and next generation of surgeons.

“We want to make RAS more accessible — to more hospitals, and more surgeons, for the benefit of patients,” Falzon added.

AMRA Director and CEO Professor Tony Costello said it was important for MedTech companies such as Medtronic to work with surgeons and clinical associations to improve patient outcomes.

“MedTech companies play a critical role in helping train surgeons — they know the technology while surgeons know how to operate — and when you combine the two, the outcomes will be better for the patient. Ultimately, we all want to provide better training to get better outcomes for societal and patient benefit.”