The Launch of the Versius System at the University of the Free State.
In a landmark event for surgical innovation in Southern Africa, Marcus Medical and CMR Surgical launched the VersiusRobotic Surgery System at the University of the Free State (UFS) on 11 March 2025.
This launch marked a significant leap forward in surgical technology and underscores a growing dedication to innovation and excellence in the region’s healthcare sector. This cutting-edge platform represents a major advancement in the region’s ongoing commitment to advancing healthcare through the latest technological innovations. The system is now fully operational at the Universitas Academic Hospital in Bloemfontein, setting a new standard for surgical precision and care in the region.
Since its global launch in 2019, the Versius system has redefined robotic-assisted surgery, with more than 30,000 procedures performed across multiple specialties, including urology, general surgery, colorectal surgery, thoracic surgery, hepatobiliary (HPB), and gynecology.
As the second most widely used soft-tissue robotic surgical system worldwide, Versius continues to set new benchmarks in surgical precision, efficiency, and patient outcomes.
Versius: Designed for the Future of Surgery
Versius stands apart with its modular and compact design, allowing seamless integration into existing surgical environments without the need for extensive infrastructural modifications.
This adaptability empowers hospitals to scale their robotic programs efficiently, facilitating a smooth transition from
conventional laparoscopy to robotic-assisted techniques.
Versius’ ergonomic and open surgeon console offers the flexibility to operate in either a seated or standing position, minimizing fatigue while promoting enhanced communication within the surgical team.
Designed to mirror the natural movement of the human arm, Versius delivers exceptional dexterity through fully wristed instruments, ensuring precise control and optimal port placement.
By accommodating laparoscopic port positioning, the system enables surgeons to transition effortlessly between traditional laparoscopy and robotic-assisted procedures without altering their standard approach.
A key differentiator of the Versius system is its digital connectivity. Through Versius Clinical Insights – Versius Connect and Versius Team, surgeons and hospitals gain access to real-time procedural insights, that leverage clinical data, combined with surgical video and robot data, while the Versius Trainer Virtual Reality (VTVR) system offers an advanced virtual reality training platform.
This immersive technology allows surgeons to refine their skills flexibly, enhancing proficiency and expanding access to high-quality surgical training globally.
A Milestone for Southern Africa
The launch event, held at the Francois Retief Building on the UFS campus, brought together leading figures from the medical, academic, and technology sectors.
Notable speakers included Professor Vasu Reddy, Deputy Vice-Chancellor for Research and Internationalisation at UFS, and Mr. Mahlatsi, MEC for Health in the Free State.
Both underscored the transformative impact of the Versius system on surgical training and patient care in the region. The event also highlighted the critical role of collaboration between industry and academia in accelerating medical innovation.
The partnership between Marcus Medical, the Free State Department of Health, the University of Free State, and CMR Surgical exemplifies how strategic alliances can drive the adoption of advanced technologies, ultimately enhancing healthcare delivery across Southern Africa.
Surgical teams at Universitas Hospital commenced robotic-assisted procedures on 24 February 2025, with successful operations in urology, colorectal surgery, and hepatobiliary performed by Professor Freddie Claassen, Professor Colin Noel, Dr. Leonie Fourie, and Dr. Willem Dahms.
The Future of Surgery in Southern Africa
With Versius now fully operational at Universitas Hospital in Bloemfontein, its introduction marks the beginning of a transformative era for surgery in the region.
The Free State Department of Health and UFS have embraced the system not only for its ability to improve patient outcomes but also for its potential to enhance surgical education and training for the next generation of medical professionals.
As Marcus Medical continues to expand robotic-assisted surgery across Southern Africa, the Versius system is poised to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of minimally invasive procedures.
By offering greater precision, improved ergonomics, and enhanced accessibility, Versius is set to revolutionize surgical care, bringing world-class robotic surgery to more patients across the continent.
For more information contact us at: 📞: +27 11 314 0503 | 📩: robotics@marcusmed.co,za
