A robotic system for complete removal of bladder tumors
Official title: A Robotic System to Remove Bladder Tumors Intact: The Key to Making Lifesaving Treatment Decisions
Funded at Virtuoso Surgical, INC. · NIH-10925417 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new robotic system designed to help doctors remove bladder tumors more completely and safely, which could lead to better outcomes for patients with bladder cancer.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Sbir 2 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Virtuoso Surgical, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Nashville, United States) |
| Project start | September 9, 2023 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $908,121 |
| NIH project number | 5R44EB035063-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-10925417 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are patients diagnosed with bladder cancer who require tumor removal.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with non-cancerous bladder conditions or those who are not candidates for surgical intervention may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to develop a robotic system that can remove bladder tumors entirely and intact, addressing the current method that often leaves cancer cells behind. By using two needle-sized, tentacle-like arms that operate through a standard transurethral endoscope, the system allows for precise tissue manipulation and electrosurgical dissection. This innovative approach seeks to improve the accuracy of tumor removal, reduce the risk of cancer spread, and provide clearer diagnostic information for patients. The project is particularly significant given the high incidence of bladder cancer and the challenges associated with current treatment methods.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective bladder cancer treatments, reducing recurrence rates and improving patient outcomes.
How similar studies have gone: While the approach of using robotic systems for tumor removal is gaining traction, this specific method of intact tumor removal is innovative and has not been widely tested.
Where this research is happening
-
Virtuoso Surgical, INC.
Nashville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hendrick, Richard Joseph — Virtuoso Surgical, INC.
- Study coordinator: Hendrick, Richard Joseph
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
-
A Tiny Robotic Helper for Safer, Less-Invasive Fibroid Removal
A new robot helps surgeons remove uterine fibroids through a small hysteroscope, making the procedure easier and more widely available.
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.