Intuitive Surgical , a global leader in robotic-assisted surgery, announced that the U.S. FDA has cleared its latest advanced energy instrument — the Vessel Sealer Curved — for use with da Vinci multiport robotic systems.
The newly approved instrument is a fully wristed, advanced bipolar electrosurgical tool designed to seal, cut, grasp, and dissect tissue, offering enhanced precision and versatility. Notably, this is the first FDA clearance for an Intuitive advanced energy instrument specifically indicated for the transection of lymphatic vessels.
Designed to navigate complex anatomy, the Vessel Sealer Curved features a slim, curved jaw that mimics natural anatomical contours. This design improves control and visibility, particularly in tight surgical spaces near critical structures. A mechanical blade positioned closer to the tip increases its effectiveness as a dissecting tool.
The FDA has cleared the device for grasping, blunt dissection, bipolar coagulation, and mechanical transection of vessels (both veins and arteries) up to 7 mm in diameter, along with lymphatic vessels and tissue bundles within the jaw’s capacity. However, the clearance does not include indications for tubal sterilization or coagulation for sterilization procedures, the company clarified.
“We developed the Vessel Sealer Curved to provide surgeons with greater precision in confined anatomical areas,” said Iman Jeddi, Senior Vice President and General Manager, da Vinci platforms & product operations. “By integrating the proven reliability of the Vessel Sealer Extend with a more refined jaw design, we’re empowering surgeons to operate more confidently and efficiently across a broad range of procedures.”
This clearance is the latest milestone for Intuitive. Its next-generation da Vinci 5 system received FDA clearance last year and recently secured CE mark approval. U.S. commercial rollout is already underway. In May, the company also gained FDA approval for an additional indication for its da Vinci Single Port (SP) system.