Tampa General Hospital (TGH) and the University of South Florida (USF) are bringing what is claimed to be the world’s most precise robotic surgical technology to Florida, US.

The agreement with Medical Microinstruments (MMI) will bring the Symani surgical system to support lymphatic surgery at TGH.

The deal was formalised during a trade mission to Italy, with Florida Governor Ron DeSantis and First Lady Casey DeSantis in attendance.

The system developed by MMI is crafted to tackle the complexities of microsurgery and supermicrosurgery, empowering surgeons to execute intricate operations on fragile anatomical structures.

It incorporates tiny robotic elements and sophisticated controls, facilitating the suturing of vessels and nerves with diameters as minuscule as 0.20mm.

TGH plastic surgery chief Nicholas Panetta said: “The problem of cancer-related lymphedema that this collaboration is focused on tackling is significant. Unfortunately, today there is only a handful of surgeons with the skills necessary to treat this often-debilitating condition. The collaboration between MMI, USF and TGH is going to make substantial progress for patients on this front.”

The Symani surgical system presents a minimally invasive treatment alternative for reconstructions and lymphedema, which lessens vessel damage and diminishes the requirement for further procedures.

Additionally, it allows surgeons to refine their microsurgical abilities while reducing the likelihood of adverse events.

USF president Rhea Law said: “This unique and exciting partnership brings together the very best from both academic medicine and private industry to achieve progress in healthcare for Floridians who otherwise would not have access to this innovative surgical system in our state.

“We are grateful to Governor DeSantis and our state leaders for their support in helping us improve lives and build a healthier future.”

This latest technology joins a suite of advanced technologies at TGH to support minimally invasive surgical procedures.

Earlier this year, TGH acquired the new Intuitive da Vinci 5 surgical system, which offers surgeons improved surgical precision, increased range of motion, enhanced agility and visualisation, as well as better access to very confined areas of the body.