Enhanced 3-D high-definition resolution offers superior visual clarity of target tissue and anatomy, potentially allowing for greater surgical precision; an updated and simplified user interface enhances operating room efficiency; newly upgradeable architecture and compatibility with existing OR suite technology facilitates the seamless integration of the da Vinci Si System into the OR of the 21st century; an optional dual console allows a second surgeon to provide a da Vinci-enabled assist and may also facilitate teaching da Vinci Surgery; and finally, the addition of new ergonomic settings to the surgeon console allows greater surgeon comfort during procedures.

The da Vinci Si System retains and builds upon the core technology at the heart of the existing da Vinci and da Vinci S Systems. This includes advanced 3-D HD visualization with up to 10x magnification, offering surgeons an immersive view of the operative field, superior to that offered by conventional surgical approaches; EndoWrist instrumentation, providing da Vinci surgeons with natural dexterity and range of motion far greater than even the human hand; and Intuitive motion technology, which replicates the operative experience and control of open surgery by preserving natural eye-hand-instrument alignment and intuitive instrument control.

Together, these technological advancements provide da Vinci surgeons with unparalleled precision, dexterity and control that enable a minimally invasive approach for many complex surgical procedures.

Commenting on the introduction of the da Vinci Si System, Intuitive Surgical chairman and chief executive officer Lonnie Smith said, "We are very pleased to introduce the da Vinci Si System to our product line. We believe that the new features of the da Vinci Si System will further streamline surgical procedures, improve efficiencies and shorten the learning curve for surgeons and their operating room teams. This new system is further proof of our commitment to provide physicians and their patients with surgical solutions that are less invasive, more precise and enable faster recovery than existing surgical approaches."

Intuitive Surgical customers who own a da Vinci S 4-arm System will have the opportunity to upgrade to the new da Vinci Si system. In addition, Intuitive Surgical will continue to provide service and support for both the da Vinci and the da Vinci S Systems, and will continue investments in product development to expand the utility and longevity of all da Vinci Systems, instruments and accessories.