The program offers FDA-cleared, remanufactured instruments for da Vinci systems, aiming to reduce procurement costs and environmental waste.
Restore Robotics has announced that its recycling and remanufacturing program for da Vinci Xi robotic surgical instruments is now active in more than 300 hospitals and surgery centers across the US. The program provides a third-party option for facilities looking to reduce equipment procurement costs and address sustainability goals.
Through its distributor, Encore Medical Device Repair, Restore Robotics supplies hospitals with Food and Drug Administration (FDA)-cleared remanufactured robotic instruments that are considered substantially equivalent to new ones. The model allows healthcare facilities to recycle used or expired instruments and purchase remanufactured versions, which can lower capital expenditures and reduce environmental waste.
A Model for Cost Savings and Sustainability
Company leadership highlights the growing acceptance of remanufactured instruments as a viable alternative to original equipment manufacturer products.
“We’re incredibly proud that over 300 hospitals have committed to working with Restore Robotics,” says Clif Parker, CEO of Restore Robotics, in a release. “The feedback has been extremely positive—hospitals are seeing that remanufactured instruments perform to the same standard as new ones, at a fraction of the cost. It’s a win for both budgets and sustainability.”
The milestone suggests a broader industry shift toward extending the life of high-value medical devices.
“Hospitals appreciate the transparency, reliability, and quality of the Restore remanufacturing program,” says Tom Milano, president and COO of Encore, in a release. “This milestone shows that the healthcare industry is ready to embrace responsible reuse—treating robotic instruments as valuable assets, not disposable commodities.”
Regulatory and Future Outlook
A key factor for healthcare technology management professionals is the regulatory status of third-party devices. Restore Robotics received FDA 510(k) clearance earlier this year to remanufacture the da Vinci Xi 8 mm Monopolar Curved Scissors.
The company states that it is continuing to expand its pipeline of instruments under review with the FDA and expects to receive additional clearances through 2026.
ID 19757923 | Arrow Up © Violetkaipa | Dreamstime.com
