San Diego–based LivsMed says it aims to fundamentally shift the remote surgery landscape. It hopes to make the medium accessible and affordable for hospitals and patients worldwide.

In partnership with Sovato, the companies jointly demonstrated the viability of the approach as part of a feasibility wet-lab study. The session, spanning a 2,000-mile distance between Santa Barbara, California, and Chicago, showcased the Stark robotic system in tandem with Sovato’s remote surgery and procedure platform.

LivsMed develops the ArtiSential line of handheld robotic instruments, offering the dexterity of robotic surgery at a fraction of the cost. The company says its instruments often provide a greater range of motion than traditional robotic instruments. Stark utilizes this core technology with 90 degrees of articulation, offering superior agility and a small footprint. The company says this makes it viable for facilities unable to accommodate larger robotic systems.