SMG Yonsei Hospital Introduces 'Zamenix' AI Surgical Robot for Kidney Stone Procedures

Providing High-Quality Kidney Stone Treatment to Local Residents

SMG Yonsei Hospital is strengthening its advanced urological surgery environment by introducing Zamenix, an AI-powered surgical robot for kidney stone procedures. Zamenix, developed by Roen Surgical, is the world’s first fully robotic system and is an innovative medical device based on KAIST technology.

Surgical robot Zamenix surgical equipment image.

Zamenix uses a 2.8-3 mm diameter flexible endoscope remotely controlled by a robotic arm to remove kidney stones through the urethra and ureter without any incisions. Its AI-based respiratory compensation function automatically adjusts for stone movement caused by patient breathing, thereby increasing the precision of laser fragmentation, reducing surgery time, and minimizing both radiation exposure and medical staff fatigue. Additionally, features such as stone size guidance and the ability to store and replay surgical paths maximize both efficiency and safety during procedures.

In a 2022 clinical trial involving 46 patients, Zamenix demonstrated a 93.5% stone removal rate and a 6.5% rate of mild complications, proving its safety. It was designated as the 17th innovative medical device by the Ministry of Food and Drug Safety in 2021 and has gained international recognition, including winning the EAU 2024 Video Award. The system is being sequentially introduced at major hospitals such as Yangsan Pusan National University Hospital, Seoul National University Hospital, and Kyungpook National University Hospital, accelerating its practical adoption.

Oh Junghyun, Chief of Urology, commented, “With the introduction of Zamenix, we can now perform patient-centered precision surgeries, which will elevate the standard of healthcare in the region.”

By adopting Zamenix, SMG Yonsei Hospital aims to enhance the precision of retrograde intrarenal surgery (RIRS), accelerate patient recovery, and provide high-quality kidney stone treatment to local residents. This is expected to contribute to raising the standard of healthcare in the Changwon area and expanding minimally invasive surgeries. The hospital plans to complete installation of the equipment at the Central Surgery Center on the 18th and will ensure rapid operation through related training and promotional activities.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.