SS Innovations Expands Robotic Surgery's Reach with Affordable Technology

SS Innovations, a company founded by heart surgeon Sudhir Srivastava, is making significant strides in expanding access to robotic surgery globally. The company's SSi Mantra robot, designed to be more affordable and user-friendly than existing systems, has already been used in over 5,000 surgical procedures across seven countries.

Addressing the Cost Barrier in Robotic Surgery

Srivastava's journey began after realizing that the high cost of robotic surgery systems was preventing widespread adoption, particularly in developing countries. The SSi Mantra robot is priced at less than one-third the cost of competing systems in India, with consumables and maintenance agreements also significantly cheaper.

"Whatever it took, literally, I was absolutely determined that we must do it," Srivastava said, describing his commitment to developing a more affordable robotic surgery system.

Technological Advancements and Global Expansion

The latest iteration, SSi Mantra 3, launched in June 2024, features up to five modular robotic arms and over 40 surgical instruments. The system is designed to support numerous specialties, including cardiac surgery, an area where robotic approaches have been slower to develop due to complexity and risk.

SS Innovations is now preparing to enter the U.S. and European markets. The company plans to submit a 510(k) application to the FDA at the end of October for multiple indications, and expects to receive CE mark approval in Europe during the first half of 2026.

Telesurgery: The Next Frontier

SS Innovations is also at the forefront of telesurgery development. The company has received regulatory approval in India for both telesurgery and teleproctoring, allowing surgeons to perform procedures remotely.

"Now we have the technology and we have the speed," Srivastava noted. "This will really change how care is delivered in the future."

Srivastava himself has performed several cardiac telesurgeries using the SSi Mantra robot, sometimes operating from thousands of miles away from the patient. This advancement promises to expand access to specialized surgical care in underserved areas and reduce travel time for both surgeons and patients.