Frequently
Asked Questions

Your Questions, Answered

  • SATA Medical develops advanced, reusable laparoscopic and robotic surgical instruments. Our technology combines robot-like tip articulation with full reusability, helping hospitals reduce surgical waste and costs while maintaining high clinical performance.

  • Unlike conventional manufacturers that rely on disposable or cable-driven instruments, SATA Medical uses a patented, shaft-actuated articulation mechanism. This enables strong, precise articulation without cables and allows full disassembly for cleaning and sterilization. This unique approach makes it possible to deliver steerable, fully reusable instruments that enhance surgical performance while significantly reducing environmental impact and long-term healthcare costs.

  • SATA Medical is a spin-off from Delft University of Technology (TU Delft) and operates internationally, with roots in Delft, the Netherlands.

  • The SATA mechanism is a patented Shaft-Actuated Tip Articulation system that enables controlled bending, rotation, and opening/closing of the tip. It is cable-less, mechanically robust, and designed for repeated reuse.

  • Yes. SATA Medical instruments are fully reusable and designed for repeated reprocessing. The modular design allows the instrument to be disassembled, cleaned, sterilized, and reassembled.

  • Reusable instruments significantly reduce single-use plastic and metal waste generated during surgery. By replacing disposable instruments, hospitals can lower environmental impact and long-term costs.

  • Item descriptionNo. SATA instruments are designed to meet clinical performance requirements while complying with applicable medical device regulations. Reusability is achieved without sacrificing precision, strength, or control.

  • SATA Medical instruments are intended for use by trained surgeons and operating room professionals experienced in minimally invasive surgery.

  • SATA instruments are designed for minimally invasive laparoscopic procedures across multiple surgical specialties. The platform approach allows future expansion into additional procedures and robotic applications.

  • While articulating instruments introduce additional degrees of freedom, SATA instruments are designed with intuitive controls. Basic familiarization or training is recommended, similar to other advanced laparoscopic tools.

  • SATA Medical develops articulating laparoscopic instruments such as graspers, scissors, dissectors, and other end-effectors. The portfolio will expand over time.

  • Monopolar instruments and additional end-effectors are currently under development and will be added to the product range in the future.

  • Yes. In addition to laparoscopic instruments, SATA Medical is developing reusable, articulating instruments for robotic surgery and is actively seeking R&D and strategic partners in this field.

  • SATA Medical follows the European Medical Device Regulation (MDR) and ISO 13485 quality management standards. Regulatory submissions and certifications are part of the commercialization roadmap.

  • Yes. SATA Medical collaborates with distributors, hospitals, and strategic partners to bring reusable articulating instruments to clinical practice.

  • Yes. Surgeons and hospitals can request a demo to evaluate SATA Medical instruments in practice.

  • Absolutely. SATA Medical actively collaborates with clinical partners, research institutions, and industry partners to further develop sustainable surgical technologies.

  • Surgical procedures generate significant waste, largely due to disposable instruments. Sustainable surgical solutions help reduce environmental impact while controlling healthcare costs.

  • Articulating surgical instruments provide additional degrees of freedom at the tip, allowing surgeons to better align with anatomy and approach target tissue from optimal angles. This can improve precision, access in confined spaces, and ergonomic handling during minimally invasive procedures. Compared to straight instruments, articulation can support more controlled movements and reduce the need for awkward wrist or arm positions.

  • Articulating surgical instruments are used in minimally invasive procedures where enhanced dexterity and access are beneficial. Typical application areas include general surgery, gastrointestinal surgery, colorectal surgery, gynecology, urology, and thoracic surgery. Articulation is particularly valuable in confined anatomical spaces, complex suturing tasks, and procedures requiring precise tissue manipulation.