The world’s first remote telerobotic endovascular thrombectomy technology
Project Lead
Professor Hal Rice, Gold Coast University Hospital
Project Team
Prof Geoffrey Donnan, University of Melbourne; Prof Steven Davis, University of Melbourne; Dr Cameron Williams, University of Melbourne
Industry Partner
NeuTex Pty Ltd
Project Summary
Problem
One third of Australians live in rural and remote communities, where access to crucial therapies like thrombolysis and thrombectomy is virtually non-existent. This lack of access results in significant disparities in clinical outcomes. Endovascular thrombectomy, a highly effective treatment with Level 1 Evidence showing a number needed to treat of only 2.6, is not available in a timely manner outside urban centres, exacerbating health inequities
Solution
The Corindus Vascular Robotic System, already approved for percutaneous coronary and peripheral vascular interventions in the USA and other countries, offers a solution. This technology has been proven safe and effective, and has been used for thrombectomy in stroke patients with large vessel occlusion in two cases by CI-Rice. The robotic process has demonstrated effectiveness over thousands of kilometres between centres. We propose to systematically evaluate this cutting-edge technology over vast distances between Australian centres, bringing timely thrombectomy to remote areas.
Impact
Validation of this world-first telerobotic thrombectomy system would revolutionise stroke treatment accessibility in Australia and similar countries. By enabling remote, telerobotic endovascular interventions, this technology will significantly improve equity of access to first-world treatments for remote communities. The health economic benefits will be substantial, driven by improved clinical outcomes and reduced disparities in healthcare access. This innovative approach has global applicability, offering a model for other geographically challenged regions to adopt and implement, ultimately transforming the landscape of stroke care worldwide.
