Virtuoso Surgical Robotic System Used To Perform Successful First-in-Human Bladder Cancer Removal Cases: Enables Cutting Edge Surgical Approach

Virtuoso Surgical Inc., a Nashville-based surgical robotics company, today announced the first-in-human use of its Virtuoso system, ushering in a new era of precision and minimally invasive options for bladder cancer patients. The Virtuoso system features two robotically controlled, needle-sized (< 1 mm) manipulators that operate from the tip of a rigid endoscope. The robotic system facilitated a series of endoscopic bladder lesion excisions using the advanced en bloc technique that removes the bladder lesion intact rather than piecemeal. The groundbreaking case series was performed by Dr. Jeremy Teoh, a world-renowned bladder cancer surgeon and researcher, at The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK).

“We are excited to see the Virtuoso system used successfully in its first human cases, particularly to allow surgeons to provide patients a best-in-class procedure such as the en bloc bladder tumor resection,” said Dr. S. Duke Herrell, CEO of Virtuoso Surgical, who is also a urologic surgeon. “This milestone is a testament to our team’s dedication to advancing surgical robotics and our commitment to partnering with leading clinicians, like Dr. Jeremy Teoh and CUHK, to transform patient care. The Virtuoso system is engineered to empower surgeons with superior control and precision, which is critical for delicate operations.”

Dr. Teoh is a leading advocate for the use of the en bloc technique, which is believed to offer significant advantages, including a reduced risk of tumor cell spillage, potentially helping to reduce the high recurrence rates of bladder cancer. This approach has also been demonstrated to significantly enhance staging accuracy and improve pathological specimen quality in numerous studies.

A recent award-winning RCT by Dr. Teoh et al. in European Urology demonstrated a decreased risk of cancer recurrence at 1 year with the manual en bloc technique. Despite noted benefits, en bloc procedures are not commonly performed in the U.S., likely due to the dexterity limitations of current equipment, which makes the procedure challenging to learn and perform effectively. The Virtuoso system is specifically designed to overcome these challenges and was used to remove a total of eleven lesions in six patients successfully.

Dr. Jeremy Teoh commented, “The ability to perform an en bloc resection for bladder cancer with this level of robotic assistance is a game-changer even for an expert in the technique. The Virtuoso system offered exceptional maneuverability, dexterity and visual clarity, enabling meticulous dissection. This approach has the potential to enable the widespread adoption of en bloc techniques, thereby minimizing local recurrence and providing a more definitive pathological specimen, which is crucial for guiding subsequent treatment decisions. We are extremely optimistic about what this technology means for the future of bladder cancer surgery and patient outcomes.”

The Virtuoso system’s advanced instrumentation and multiple-arm dexterity are designed to improve rigid endoscopy by providing retraction and precise control through the company’s patented concentric tube robotic arm technology. The concentric tube robot was an invention originally conceived by Vanderbilt University professor Robert J, Webster, III, Ph.D., founder and President of Virtuoso, while part of a team of advanced medical robotics researchers at Johns Hopkins University. Dr. Webster commented, “Our vision at Virtuoso Surgical is to give surgeons unprecedented dexterity. This will enable them to perform the less invasive, more accurate surgeries that improve patients’ lives and long-term health outcomes.”

Dr. Herrell added, “We are unlike any surgical robot out there today. The Virtuoso system is designed for a different set of procedures and approaches that have not yet benefited from robotics. This is a new type of robot, significantly smaller in scale, which enables us to bring our surgical skills deep into the body with less invasiveness for the patient.”

This first-in-human use marks the beginning of a new phase for the Virtuoso system, with plans for expanded clinical trials and the introduction of new clinical applications across multiple additional surgical specialties. Virtuoso Chief Operating Officer and Chief Technology Officer Richard J. Hendrick, Ph.D., noted, “We believe the Virtuoso system will be useful in multiple areas of the body where rigid endoscopes are used to deliver interventional tools. Dexterous instruments at the tip of the endoscope that can work in small spaces have the potential to enhance existing procedures and enable entirely new, less invasive approaches.” The company has already done early feasibility studies in uterine fibroids, pulmonary procedures and neurosurgery, and is exploring endoscopic spine procedures, among others.

Virtuoso Surgical plans to continue advancing this revolutionary technology in collaboration with Dr. Teoh and the exceptional team at The Chinese University of Hong Kong (CUHK). The company plans to submit an IDE application to the FDA for the study of the device’s use in the U.S.

Note: This study was done under CUHK Ethics Board approval. The Virtuoso system is not FDA-approved and is not for sale in the United States.

About Virtuoso Surgical

Virtuoso Surgical has developed a groundbreaking robotic surgery system that radically improves minimally invasive endoscopic surgery. The Virtuoso system features a pair of instrument delivery arms made of concentric nitinol tubes that mimic a surgeon’s hand motions to offer unprecedented control and dexterity to a full range of endoscopic applications. The system utilizes patented technology initially developed by Virtuoso’s founders at Johns Hopkins University, Vanderbilt University, and Vanderbilt University Medical Center, with funding from the National Science Foundation and the National Institutes of Health. For additional information about Virtuoso Surgical, visit www.virtuososurgical.net. This device has not been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) and is not for sale in the United States.

Dr. Shawn Thomas Joins Florida Urology Center, an Affiliate of U.S. Urology Partners

Florida Urology Center today announced that Dr. Shawn W. Thomas has joined the practice, bringing decades of experience in urologic care and advanced training in urologic oncology to the region. Florida Urology Center is a full-service specialty group providing comprehensive services in five locations throughout Florida, including Daytona Beach, New Smyrna Beach, Ormond Beach, Palm Coast and Port Orange. Florida Urology Center is an affiliate of U.S. Urology Partners, one of the nation’s leading providers of urological services.

Dr. Greg A. Parr of Florida Urology Center stated, “We are pleased to welcome Dr. Shawn Thomas to our care team at Florida Urology Center. Dr. Thomas further expands our expertise in urologic oncology, BPH, kidney stone disease and men’s health, in addition to general urology. Dr. Thomas will support the mission of Florida Urology Center, enabling people in the communities we serve to receive the most advanced, effective urologic treatments close to home.”

Dr. Thomas stated, “I am excited to join the dynamic group of urologists at Florida Urology Center, a practice that is well-established in the Daytona Beach area and provides excellent patient care. I look forward to complementing the skill sets of the other excellent urologists and working in a collaborative fashion to provide the best urologic care in the region.”

“I take a comprehensive approach to each individual’s plan of care. Many disease processes are interrelated, and time and energy must be tailored to each patient’s specific needs for solving their problems and achieving good outcomes,” said Dr. Thomas. “I find it very rewarding in helping patients enhance their overall health and quality of life. It is what drives me to continually improve my urologic care skill set and to provide the best care possible.”

Dr. Thomas has more than 20 years of experience as a practicing urologist with fellowship training in urologic oncology. Dr. Thomas earned a Doctor of Osteopathic Medicine from Nova Southeastern University College of Osteopathic Medicine. He completed a residency in general surgery at the Albert Einstein Medical Center in Philadelphia, where he also completed a second residency in urological surgery. His fellowship training in urologic oncology took place at Cleveland Clinic Foundation in Weston, Florida. He was an attending urologic surgeon at White-Wilson Medical Center in Ft. Walton Beach, Florida, and Wuesthoff Medical Center in Rockledge, Florida. He has been treating patients in the Daytona Beach area since 2014. Dr. Thomas has written numerous research papers and presented them at medical conferences around the country.

Appointments with Dr. Thomas are currently being scheduled for the Florida Urology Center offices in Ormond Beach, Port Orange and New Smyrna Beach. To schedule an appointment with Dr. Thomas or to refer a patient, please visit www.floridaurology.com or call (386) 673-5100.

About U.S. Urology Partners

U.S. Urology Partners offers a comprehensive suite of practice management capabilities to its affiliated community-based urology practices, which maintain their local brand and identity that they have established, often over decades. U.S. Urology Partners currently supports five affiliated groups comprising over 180 providers across practices located in Florida, Indiana, Massachusetts, New York and Ohio. For more information, please visit www.us-uro.com.

Maria Grice Named COO of Associated Medical Professionals of NY, an Affiliate of U.S. Urology Partners

Associated Medical Professionals of NY (A.M.P.) announced today that Maria Grice has joined the organization as Chief Operating Officer. A seasoned healthcare leader and clinician with more than two decades of experience, Grice will manage operations of A.M.P.’s extensive clinical network in the Central New York region.

Associated Medical Professionals of NY is a leading practice spanning 22 locations in Central New York, including nine offices and services at 13 hospitals, offering advanced urological care, men’s health, women’s health, cancer care, radiation oncology, interventional radiology, clinical research and more. A.M.P. is an affiliate of U.S. Urology Partners, one of the largest independent providers of urological and specialty related services in the nation, which is backed by NMS Capital.

Christopher M. Pieczonka, M.D., Chief Executive Officer of Associated Medical Professionals of NY and Corporate Director of Clinical Research of U.S. Urology Partners, stated, “We are so lucky to have found such a talented operator to join our practice. Maria Grice brings a wealth of previous knowledge having run multiple physician practices as well as being an operator of one of the region’s largest oncology practices. We anticipate using her bevy of knowledge and experience within our community to continue to grow and expand our patient care network.”

Maria Grice, Chief Operating Officer of Associated Medical Professionals of NY, stated, “I am excited to join the A.M.P. team and honored to be part of an organization that elevates the level of care in Central New York. With locations throughout the region, A.M.P. is well-known for its outstanding physicians and care team, and commitment to an exceptional patient experience. Access to the latest treatments and technologies, including prostate and bladder treatment, cancer care, radiation oncology, interventional radiology, lab, imaging, clinical research and more, enable people in the region to get the most advanced care close to home. I look forward to further enhancing A.M.P.’s reputation as a leading organization for care and employer and provider of choice in Central New York.”

Grice stated, “In today’s healthcare environment, it is more important than ever for health systems and area providers to work together in meeting the comprehensive needs of the community. A.M.P. collaborates to support optimal care in the region through referrals to A.M.P. for its advanced expertise, A.M.P.’s nine offices and services at 13 area hospitals, and by sharing best practices with other U.S. Urology Partners practices across the country. We will continue working together to put patients first and achieve successful, sustainable care for the people of Central New York.”

Grice is a healthcare leader with more than two decades of experience operating and growing comprehensive primary and specialty care services, and has an advanced clinical background in oncology and radiation therapy.

Grice previously served on the senior leadership team of Community Health Hospital in Hamilton, New York, as Vice President of Physician Services, and developed multiple service lines, including primary care, cardiology, pulmonology, orthopedics and general surgery. Her background includes executive leadership and oversight of 9 locations, over 100 providers and hundreds of staff as Director of Primary Care, St. Joseph’s Hospital, Syracuse, New York.

Her impressive career spans more than 15 years with Hematology Oncology Associates of Central New York (HOCNY), most recently a member of the C-suite as Chief of Radiation Services. Skilled in managing a comprehensive medical and radiation oncology organization and using many imaging technologies, Grice began her career as a radiation therapist.

Grice received her Master of Business Administration from Empire State College. She has a Bachelor of Science, Certification in Radiation Therapy, from University of Alabama at Birmingham, and also holds an Associate Degree in Science.

To learn more about Associated Medical Professionals of NY or to schedule an appointment with the A.M.P. care team, please visit www.ampofny.com.

About U.S. Urology Partners

U.S. Urology Partners is one of the nation’s largest independent providers of urology and related specialty services, including general urology, surgical and robotic procedures, advanced cancer treatment and other ancillary services. The U.S. Urology Partners clinical network consists of more than 60 locations throughout the East Coast and Midwest, including affiliate practices Associated Medical Professionals of NY, Central Ohio Urology Group, Florida Urology Center, Greater Boston Urology and Urology of Indiana. U.S. Urology Partners was formed to support urology practices with an experienced team of healthcare executives and resources, and is backed by NMS Capital. The U.S. Urology Partners corporate office is in Nolensville, Tennessee, just outside of Nashville. For additional information about U.S. Urology Partners, visit www.us-uro.com.

Virtuoso Surgical Robot Helps Enable Innovative ARPA-H Project on Artificial Intelligence

Virtuoso Surgical, Inc., a Nashville based medical device company, is pleased to announce their role in a landmark, multi-institution award from the federal Advanced Research Projects Agency for Health (ARPA-H) program to advance Autonomy at a Less Invasive Scale in Surgery (ALISS) (https://arpa-h.gov/research-and-funding/mission-office-iso/awardees) and enable fully autonomous surgical procedures. The award provides up to $12 million in funding and is being led by Vanderbilt Engineering Professor and Virtuoso Surgical Co-founder and President, Robert J. Webster, III, Ph.D.

The award brings together robotics and artificial intelligence experts from Vanderbilt, Johns Hopkins University, University of Tennessee (Knoxville) and University of Utah. World-renowned expert robotic surgeons from Vanderbilt University Medical Center (VUMC) and Johns Hopkins lead clinical development efforts in the project. The award supports placement of the Virtuoso Surgical System at three of the participating research sites, and all artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML)  development will take place using this platform. The project also creates a team of embedded AI/ML experts within Virtuoso Surgical to support the university research teams.

“Fully autonomous surgical robots will transform medicine,” Virtuoso Surgical President Robert Webster said. “Not only will they make routine procedures safer and more affordable, but they will also address the worldwide shortage of surgeons and expand global access to lifesaving surgeries.”

Virtuoso Surgical is a surgical robotics company co-founded by Webster and Duke Herrell, M.D., Professor of Urology and founder of VUMC’s Minimally Invasive Urologic Surgery and Robotics Programs, who now serves as Virtuoso’s CEO. The Virtuoso Surgical System serves as an ideal platform for development of autonomous surgery facilitated by artificial intelligence, machine-learning and computer vision.

The key to the team’s novel approach is demonstration-based learning. “By enabling robots to learn from, and be coached by, human surgeons, we will create brand new machine learning algorithms beyond anything that exists today,”  Webster said. “Surgeons will literally train robots just like they train residents and fellows today. The result will be systems that initially help surgeons be more accurate and efficient, and eventually fully automate surgical procedures.”

By initially having human surgeons teleoperate the Virtuoso Surgical System as the human performs surgery, the robot can “shadow” the human’s decision-making, learning more generalized skills. “Our algorithms are watching the commands the surgeon sends to the robot and what they were looking at through the robot’s camera at the time,” said Alan Kuntz, Ph.D., Assistant Professor at University of Utah, and one of the key leaders of the artificial intelligence algorithm development.

“By looking at the history of those commands, the algorithms can infer how what the surgeons did changed based on what they saw. The robot can then apply these learned strategies to new surgical decisions that it hasn’t encountered before. We will further enable the robot to understand its own uncertainty, knowing what it doesn’t know,” Kuntz elaborates, “so that it can ask a human surgeon for input, clarification or to take over when it is unsure of how to proceed. That’s a key building block for robust autonomy.”

Within the next three years, the research team plans to demonstrate a robotic surgical device capable of removing tumors from the trachea and prostate without the direct intervention of a surgeon. These will initially be demonstrated in simulated conditions and not on live patients. The team also foresees this research having future application to uterine fibroids, bladder tumors, spine procedures and brain cysts, among other clinical applications in the future.

“Creating a system that can learn from human surgeons — and continue to improve performance — will be a game changer,” Duke Herrell said. “Our vision is not to replace surgeons, but to vastly expand the work they do to improve patients’ lives and long-term health outcomes.”

The team includes advanced robotics, imaging and artificial intelligence researchers from many of the top surgical robotics and computer science labs in the U.S. with 14 PhDs, 22 post graduate researchers and 5 leading surgeon scientists forming the research team.

About Virtuoso Surgical

Virtuoso Surgical has developed a groundbreaking robotic surgery system that radically improves minimally invasive endoscopic surgery. The Virtuoso Surgical system features a pair of instrument delivery arms made of concentric nitinol tubes that mimic a surgeon’s hand motions to offer unprecedented control and dexterity to a full range of endoscopic applications. The system uses patented technology developed by Virtuoso’s founders at Johns Hopkins University and Vanderbilt University with funding from the National Science Foundation and the National Institutes of Health. For additional information about Virtuoso Surgical, visit www.virtuososurgical.net. This device has not been approved by the FDA and is not for sale in the United States.

EndoTheia Announces Successful Clinical Trial of FlexStone, the World’s First Independently Steerable Kidney Stone Basket Surgical Device

EndoTheia, Inc., a leader in innovative surgical technology, is pleased to announce the successful completion of the first-in-human clinical trial for the FlexStone™ Basket, the first-ever independently steerable kidney stone basket. This groundbreaking device enables unmatched precision and control in kidney stone removal, providing a significant advancement in urological care. The clinical trial was conducted at Vanderbilt University Medical Center by Nicholas Kavoussi, M.D., and Ryan Hsi, M.D., who served as co-lead investigators.

The FlexStone Basket empowers surgeons to directly steer the device, enabling more effective maneuvering around anatomical structures to reach stones in difficult-to-access locations within the kidney. This capability addresses longstanding limitations of conventional kidney stone retrieval devices, potentially improving patient outcomes and reducing procedural complexity.

“The FlexStone Basket offers unprecedented flexibility and control, enabling us to access and retrieve stones in challenging locations that would otherwise be difficult to reach,” said Dr. Nicholas Kavoussi, co-lead investigator. “It’s a game-changer that brings a new level of precision to kidney stone removal procedures.”

Dr. Ryan Hsi, co-lead investigator in the clinical trial, emphasized the device’s impact on patient care, stating, “This device enables us to minimize invasiveness while maximizing our efficiency and effectiveness in removing stones. FlexStone has the potential to transform how we approach complex kidney stone cases, and we’re thrilled to be part of this milestone in urological innovation.”

EndoTheia President Robert Webster, III, Ph.D., highlighted the significance of FlexStone for the company and the field. “The successful first-in-human trial of the FlexStone Basket is a testament to EndoTheia’s commitment to pioneering transformative medical devices that empower physicians and improve patient care,” said Dr. Webster. “We are thrilled to be working with leading experts at Vanderbilt University on this groundbreaking achievement and look forward to bringing this technology to healthcare providers worldwide.”

Looking ahead, EndoTheia has entered into a strategic partnership with Nissha Medical Technologies to support the commercial scale-up of the FlexStone Basket and to advance innovations in minimally invasive endoscopy. This collaboration will enable EndoTheia to accelerate its innovation pipeline, bringing transformative solutions to market more quickly and enhancing surgical capabilities for physicians and patients globally.

EndoTheia will continue to collaborate with leading urologists to gather data on the FlexStone Basket’s performance and explore further applications for steerable devices in various medical specialties. Building on the success of FlexStone, the company’s next innovation will be an independently steerable laser fiber, designed to speed up stone removal by enhancing access and precision during lithotripsy procedures. This clinical milestone represents a significant step forward for EndoTheia’s mission to provide cutting-edge tools that enhance the precision, safety, and effectiveness of minimally invasive surgeries.

The results from the FlexStone Basket clinical trial will be shared at the American Urological Association (AUA) Annual Meeting, taking place in Las Vegas, Nevada, from April 26-30, 2025.

For more information on the FlexStone Basket, EndoTheia, and its partnership with Nissha Medical Technologies, please visit www.endotheia.com or contact Scott Webster, Ph.D., EndoTheia Chief Operating Officer, at scott.webster@endotheia.com.

About EndoTheia, Inc.
EndoTheia, Inc. is at the forefront of transforming minimally invasive endoscopic surgery with its groundbreaking technology. The company’s innovations leverage intelligently micro-machined smart materials to create highly dexterous, millimeter and sub-millimeter scale manipulators, enabling more precise and effective therapeutic outcomes in complex endoscopic procedures. Developed by EndoTheia’s founders at Vanderbilt University and the University of Tennessee, Knoxville, with funding from the National Institutes of Health and Launch Tennessee, this patented technology is designed to enhance the capabilities of flexible endoscopes and robotic platforms. EndoTheia is committed to advancing surgical precision and improving patient care. For more information, visit www.endotheia.com.

About Nissha Medical Technologies

Nissha Medical Technologies is a Contract Development and Manufacturing Organization (CDMO) dedicated to accelerating the development and commercialization of innovative medical devices. By fostering strategic partnerships with academia and startups, Nissha Medical Technologies bridges the gap between groundbreaking research and real-world patient care. Their collaborative approach empowers early-stage innovators to bring cutting-edge technologies to market more rapidly, ultimately improving patient outcomes and advancing the field of minimally invasive surgery. For more information, visit www.nisshamedical.com.

Urology of Indiana Unveils New Interventional Radiology Center with Innovative Men’s Health Initiative for Enlarged Prostate Treatment

Urology of Indiana is now offering a groundbreaking initiative in the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or enlarged prostate, including the opening of a new outpatient Interventional Radiology Center to serve Indianapolis and the surrounding region. Providing comprehensive urologic care through 14 locations with a history dating back more than 130 years, Urology of Indiana is an affiliate of U.S. Urology Partners, one of the nation’s largest independent providers of urology and related specialty services, which is backed by NMS Capital.

Urology of Indiana is at the forefront of delivering exceptional men’s healthcare with its team of highly skilled physicians and state-of-the-art technology. The new initiative includes a collaboration between Urology of Indiana and Prostate Centers USA®, furthering the commitment to provide the most advanced and effective treatment options to men suffering from an enlarged prostate.

Dr. Ronald Suh, President of Urology of Indiana, stated, “Urology of Indiana’s mission is to provide the highest quality, comprehensive urologic care to our patients and referring physicians. The integration of Interventional Radiology services into our practice allows patients to receive streamlined management of their condition from the team of providers they know and trust in a convenient, modern outpatient environment.”

Services provided at the new Urology of Indiana Interventional Radiology Center include prostatic artery embolization (PAE). The 2023 American Urological Guidelines for the management of BPH were updated to include PAE as a recommended treatment option. This non-surgical alternative offers long-term relief with minimal downtime and fewer complications compared to traditional medication or invasive surgical procedures.

Shawn Severns, Chief Operating Officer of Urology of Indiana, said, “Our collaboration with Prostate Centers USA® enables Urology of Indiana to bring immediate, nationally recognized expertise in this exciting, new minimally invasive treatment for BPH that safely and effectively treats enlarged prostate glands without surgical intervention. We are thrilled to add this specialty and new Interventional Radiology Center to the Urology of Indiana team of highly skilled urologists, urogynecologists and radiation oncologists.”

Dr. Sandeep Bagla, Chief Executive Officer of Prostate Centers USA®, stated, “Our collaboration with Urology of Indiana, under the U.S. Urology Partners umbrella, marks a significant milestone in our ongoing expansion and commitment to enhancing men’s health care across the nation. This new center allows us to integrate our specialized interventional radiology techniques with top-tier urological care, providing patients with advanced, minimally invasive treatment options. Our focus remains on improving patient outcomes and quality of life by delivering effective treatments with minimal discomfort and downtime. We are excited about the potential of this partnership to revolutionize the standard of care and make a lasting impact on the health and well-being of men throughout the country.”

To learn more about Urology of Indiana or to schedule an appointment, please visit www.urologyin.com or call (877) 362-2778. The new Urology of Indiana Interventional Radiology Center serving the Central Indiana region is located at 14300 138th Street, Fishers, IN 46037.

About Urology of Indiana

Urology of Indiana is one of the nation’s premier urology practices with a history dating back more than 130 years. Based in Indianapolis, Urology of Indiana provides comprehensive urologic care through 14 locations, including Center of Excellence facilities, regional clinics, two Integrated Cancer Centers for Prostate Cancer and new Interventional Radiology Center. Committed to delivering patient-focused service in a compassionate atmosphere, Urology of Indiana delivers leading-edge services and excellence in care delivery, always with patient satisfaction in mind. The care team led by board certified urologists, board certified urogynecologists and licensed advanced practice practitioners offers complete diagnosis and treatment for urologic disorders in men, women and children. Urology of Indiana is at the forefront of the latest advances in urologic care and is honored to be a leader in bringing new technology and treatment options to Indiana and the Midwest. For more information about Urology of Indiana, visit www.urologyin.com or call (877) 362-2778.

About U.S. Urology Partners

U.S. Urology Partners is one of the nation’s largest independent providers of urology and related specialty services, including general urology, surgical and robotic procedures, advanced cancer treatment and other ancillary services. The U.S. Urology Partners clinical network consists of more than 60 locations throughout the East Coast and Midwest, including affiliate practices Associated Medical Professionals of NY, Central Ohio Urology Group, Florida Urology Center, Greater Boston Urology and Urology of Indiana. U.S. Urology Partners was formed to support urology practices with an experienced team of healthcare executives and resources, and is backed by NMS Capital. The U.S. Urology Partners corporate office is in Nolensville, Tennessee, just outside of Nashville. For additional information about U.S. Urology Partners, visit www.us-uro.com.

About Prostate Centers USA®
Prostate Centers USA® is a leading provider of minimally invasive men’s health care solutions. With a team of renowned physician leaders and state-of-the-art facilities, they deliver exceptional outcomes for men suffering from various urological conditions, including BPH. Through their collaborative approach, they partner with leading urologists across the United States to ensure that patients have access to the best care possible. Their commitment to innovation and patient-centric care has earned them a reputation as the trusted leader in the field of men’s health care. Prostate Centers USA® is a network partner of Hemorrhoid Centers®, Ortho Centers™️ and IR Centers™️. For more information about Prostate Centers USA® and their services, please visit www.ircenters.com.

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Sara Q. Perkins, M.D., Joins Central Ohio Urology Group, an Affiliate of U.S. Urology Partners

Central Ohio Urology Group is pleased to announce that Sara Q. Perkins, M.D., has joined its award-winning care team. Dr. Perkins is returning home to serve the Columbus community after completing her residency at the Vattikuti Urology Institute at Henry Ford Hospital, which is internationally recognized for innovation in robotic surgery.

Central Ohio Urology Group is an affiliate of U.S. Urology Partners, one of the nation’s largest independent providers urological services, which is backed by NMS Capital. With a clinical network of 15 offices in the region, Central Ohio Urology Group provides comprehensive urological services, including general urology, men’s health, women’s health, interventional radiology, cancer care, advanced cancer treatment and radiation oncology . Central Ohio Urology Surgery Center is one of the first ambulatory surgery centers in the country to offer urologic robotic surgery.

Jason Guagenti, Chief Operating Officer of Central Ohio Urology Group, stated, “We are very excited to have Dr. Sara Perkins join our physician team. Dr. Perkins will bring high-quality patient care and great bedside manner to our patients. As an award winning physician with extensive skills and research experience, she will be an excellent addition to our care team in furthering our purpose of providing an individualized, compassionate experience for every person we are honored to serve.”

After growing up in the Columbus area, Dr. Perkins received her undergraduate degree at Miami University and doctoral medical degree at the University of Toledo College of Medicine, where she was named to the AOA Medical Honor Society. Dr. Perkins completed her urology residency at the prestigious Vattikuti Urology Institute at Henry Ford Hospital, where she spent time learning from leaders and innovators in robotic surgery. During her time there she received the Ramesh Kumar Humanitarian Award (Resident of the Year) and the Peabody Award, given to support an exceptional educational experience where she traveled to Honduras providing urologic surgeries to those in need. A prolific researcher and writer, Dr. Perkins’ studies are published in numerous internationally recognized peer-reviewed journals.

While she is a skilled robotic surgeon with expertise in treating prostate, kidney and bladder cancers, Dr. Perkins also is experienced in serving patients with BPH/enlarged prostate, incontinence, kidney stones, and general urology issues. Dr. Perkins is located at the Central Ohio Urology Group office at 350 W. Wilson Bridge Road, Worthington, OH 43085.

Sara Q. Perkins, M.D., stated, “I am proud to join the care team at Central Ohio Urology Group, which focuses on providing collaborative, comprehensive urologic care while leveraging advanced technologies. I look forward to helping patients by using the large breadth of my knowledge and urologic training, and collaborating with the clinical team to provide the best care for our patients.”

“My philosophy of patient care begins with treating every patient with dignity and respect, and providing the level of care that I would want my family to receive,” said Dr. Perkins. “Through open communication and transparency with my patients, I make sure they fully understand all aspects of their conditions and treatment options. By carefully considering my patients’ individual needs, I am able to provide truly personalized care.“

To learn more about Dr. Perkins or to schedule an appointment with the Central Ohio Urology Group care team, please visit www.centralohiourology.com or call (614) 396-2684.

About U.S. Urology Partners

U.S. Urology Partners is one of the nation’s largest independent providers of urology and related specialty services, including general urology, surgical and robotic procedures, advanced cancer treatment and other ancillary services. The U.S. Urology Partners clinical network consists of more than 50 locations throughout the East Coast and Midwest, including affiliate practices Associated Medical Professionals of NY, Central Ohio Urology Group, Florida Urology Center, Greater Boston Urology and Urology of Indiana. U.S. Urology Partners was formed to support urology practices with an experienced team of healthcare executives and resources, and is backed by NMS Capital. The U.S. Urology Partners corporate office is in Nolensville, Tennessee, just outside of Nashville. For additional information about U.S. Urology Partners, visit www.us-uro.com.

Leading Cardiac Diagnostics Innovator Zywie Announces Industry Partnership With MedAxiom

Zywie , a cardiovascular diagnostics pioneer specializing in remote cardiac monitoring through wearable biosensor devices and cloud-based data analytic solutions, announced today a partnership with MedAxiom, the cardiovascular community’s premier source for organizational performance solutions.

“We are proud to welcome Zywie to the MedAxiom community,” said Joe Sasson, PhD, MedAxiom chief commercial officer and executive vice president of ventures. “Remote rhythm monitoring is a crucial tool for diagnosing cardiac arrhythmias. Zywie’s unique and adaptable solutions offer an exciting opportunity to bring more innovations to our members, provide education on the options and strategies available to them, and advance our goal of transforming cardiovascular care together.”

Zywie offers multiple types of monitors to fit the needs of every physician and patient, including the ZywieNano™ patch, a compact band-aid-like patch that continuously monitors the heart’s electrical activity for up to 30 consecutive days. The data collected by the ZywieNano™ patch is sent to Zywie’s cloud-based platform, where it is analyzed by algorithms to provide insights into a patient’s heart rhythm and potential cardiac conditions. Zywie’s unique ability to analyze patients’ electrocardiograms in real time allows clinicians to proactively address abnormal heart rhythms before they worsen or become lethal.

“Zywie is excited to announce our partnership with MedAxiom, the leader in cardiovascular organizational performance solutions,” said Latha Ganeshan, Zywie CEO. “Zywie reaffirms its dedication to advancing patient care through innovative cardiac diagnostics, and this partnership enables us to collaborate closely on that mission with MedAxiom’s extensive network and expertise. Together with MedAxiom, we are committed to delivering enhanced value to patients, healthcare providers and the broader cardiovascular community.”

Zywie’s platform has been shown to increase diagnostic yields and actionable data for providers over standard 14-day monitors by capturing the rhythms previously missed between days 15 to 30. The higher diagnostic yield, or arrhythmia detection rate, increases providers’ ability to accurately identify and diagnose heart-related conditions.

About Zywie

Zywie is a full-suite, remote cardiac monitoring company specializing in wearable biosensor devices and cloud-based data analytic solutions. Zywie’s flagship product is the ZywieNano™ patch, a small band-aid-like patch that patients wear on their chest to continuously monitor their heart’s electrical activity for up to 30 days. The data collected by the ZywieNano™ patch is sent to Zywie’s cloud-based platform, where it is analyzed by algorithms to provide insights into a patient’s heart rhythm and potential cardiac conditions. For additional information, visit www.zywie.healthcare.

About MedAxiom

MedAxiom, an ACC Company, is the cardiovascular community’s premier source for organizational performance solutions. MedAxiom is transforming cardiovascular care by combining the knowledge and power of hundreds of cardiovascular organization members, thousands of administrators, clinicians and revenue cycle experts, and dozens of industry partners. Through the delivery of proprietary tools, smart data and proven strategies, MedAxiom helps cardiovascular organizations achieve the Quadruple Aim of better outcomes, lower costs, improved patient experience and improved clinician experience. For additional information, visit www.MedAxiom.com.

Global Technology Leader Chris Boult Joins U.S. Urology Partners as Chief Information Officer

U.S. Urology Partners announced today that internationally recognized technology leader Chris Boult has joined the company as Chief Information Officer. U.S. Urology Partners is one of the nation’s largest independent providers of urological and related specialty services, including general urology, surgical and robotic procedures, advanced cancer treatment and other ancillary services.

Boult will lead information technology strategy and initiatives for the rapidly growing U.S. Urology Partners clinical network which now consists of more than 50 locations throughout the East Coast and Midwest. U.S. Urology Partners partnered with NMS Capital in 2018 to support urology practices in communities across the country.

Corina Tracy, Chief Executive Officer of U.S. Urology Partners, stated, “We are pleased that Chris Boult has joined the U.S. Urology Partners team as Chief Information Officer. As we continue to develop and deploy best-in-class care across the U.S. Urology Partners platform, Chris will be a tremendous asset in helping grow and integrate our network of medical offices. Most importantly, he will help us further of mission to provide the most effective, efficient and innovative urologic care to people in the communities we serve.”

Boult has more than two decades of experience as a global leader developing and delivering technology strategies to foster growth and innovation. A sought-after business advisor and C-level executive educated in the UK, Boult was most recently a partner at Fortium Partners after serving as CIO of the Center for Autism and Related Disorders, a Blackstone private equity backed behavioral health company. His background includes serving as EVP and CIO of CEC Entertainment,  where he drove business transformation and customer experience initiatives across the U.S. and internationally with the franchise operators. Prior to  that, Boult was CIO of Greyhound Lines Inc., VP of Infrastructure and Data Services at Sabre Holdings (NASDAQ:SABR) and a Partner at Accenture PLC (NYSE:CAN) advising management teams on a broad range of business technology and strategy initiatives.

Chris Boult, Chief Information Officer of U.S. Urology Partners, stated, “I am excited to join the team at U.S. Urology Partners, and the opportunity to bring innovative solutions and business technology differentiators to our physicians and their practices. I look forward to partnering with our operators and clinicians to remove barriers to the delivery of superior care, while deploying cutting edge technologies that generate business value.”

More detailed information about CIO Chris Boult and the U.S. Urology Partners leadership team can be found at www.us-uro.com/chris-boult/ and www.us-uro.com/our-team/.

About U.S Urology Partners

U.S. Urology Partners is one of the nation’s largest independent providers of urology and related specialty services, including general urology, surgical and robotic procedures, advanced cancer treatment and other ancillary services. The U.S. Urology Partners clinical network consists of more than 50 locations throughout the East Coast and Midwest, including affiliate practices Associated Medical Professionals of NY, Central Ohio Urology Group, Florida Urology Center, Greater Boston Urology and Urology of Indiana. U.S. Urology Partners was formed to support urology practices with an experienced team of healthcare executives and resources, and is backed by NMS Capital. The U.S. Urology Partners corporate office is in Nolensville, Tennessee, just outside of Nashville. For additional information about U.S. Urology Partners, please visit www.us-uro.com.

Central Ohio Urology Group Opens New Interventional Radiology Center with Leading-Edge Men’s Health Initiative for Enlarged Prostate

Central Ohio Urology Group has opened a state-of-the-art Interventional Radiology Center and launched a groundbreaking initiative in the treatment of benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH) or enlarged prostate. Providing comprehensive urological services through 15 offices in Columbus and the surrounding region, Central Ohio Urology Group is an affiliate of U.S. Urology Partners, one of the nation’s largest independent providers of urology and related specialty services.

Central Ohio Urology Group is at the forefront of delivering exceptional results in men’s urological care and has a longstanding commitment to provide the most advanced and effective treatment options to men suffering from the symptoms of BPH or enlarged prostate. The new initiative includes a collaboration between Central Ohio Urology Group and Prostate Centers USA®.

Frederick L. Taylor, M.D., Chief Medical Officer of Central Ohio Urology Group, stated, “We are thrilled to be partnering with IR Centers to bring these life-saving and life-changing interventions to Central Ohio Urology Group, including prostate artery embolization, a new, minimally invasive treatment for benign prostatic hyperplasia that can safely and effectively treat large prostate glands without the need for surgical intervention.”

“Interventional radiology can be used to treat a variety of urologic conditions including benign prostatic hyperplasia, blockages of the urinary tract, vascular abnormalities that commonly cause pain, and urologic malignancies such as kidney cancer. We look forward to offering those services to our patients, conveniently located at the Central Ohio Urology Group Wilson Bridge location,” said Dr. Taylor.

Jason Guagenti, Chief Operating Officer of Central Ohio Urology Group, stated, “The new Interventional Radiology Center enables our urologists and their interventional radiology colleagues to work hand in hand to provide comprehensive urologic care for our patients in a convenient, outpatient environment where patient care is at the forefront. From scheduling, to the procedure, to after care requirements, our streamlined system is designed to focus on the patient’s needs and experience first.”Dr. Sandeep Bagla, Chief Executive Officer of Prostate Centers USA®, said, “This partnership signifies a leap forward in providing world-class care, particularly for those suffering from conditions like benign prostatic hyperplasia. By combining our expertise in interventional radiology with the comprehensive urological services offered by Central Ohio Urology Group, we are setting a new standard in patient care. Our goal is to significantly improve the quality of life for our patients through minimally invasive procedures, ensuring they receive the most effective treatments with the least amount of discomfort and downtime. We believe this initiative will have a profound impact on men’s health care in the region, and we are proud to be at the forefront of this advancement.”

To learn more about Central Ohio Urology Group or to schedule an appointment, please visit www.centralohiourology.com or call (614) 396-2684. The new Interventional Radiology Center is located at 350 W. Wilson Bridge Road, Worthington, OH 43085.

 

About Central Ohio Urology Group

Central Ohio Urology Group is one of the nation’s leading providers of urological services with a network of 15 offices in the region. Headquartered just outside of Columbus in Gahanna, Ohio, Central Ohio Urology Group provides comprehensive services, including general urology, men’s health, women’s health, interventional radiology, cancer care, advanced cancer treatment and radiation oncology. Facilities in the Columbus area include an Advanced Prostate Cancer Clinic, as well as the state-of-the-art Central Ohio Urology Surgery Center that is one of the first ambulatory surgery centers in the country to offer urologic robotic surgery. Central Ohio Urology Group’s experienced care team provides more than 50 urological specialties and subspecialties. For more information, visit www.centralohiourology.com.

About U.S. Urology Partners

U.S. Urology Partners is one of the nation’s largest independent providers of urology and related specialty services, including general urology, surgical and robotic procedures, advanced cancer treatment and other ancillary services. The U.S. Urology Partners clinical network consists of more than 60 locations throughout the East Coast and Midwest, including affiliate practices Associated Medical Professionals of NY, Central Ohio Urology Group, Florida Urology Center, Greater Boston Urology and Urology of Indiana. U.S. Urology Partners was formed to support urology practices with an experienced team of healthcare executives and resources, and is backed by NMS Capital. The U.S. Urology Partners corporate office is in Nolensville, Tennessee, just outside of Nashville. For additional information about U.S. Urology Partners, visit www.us-uro.com.

About Prostate Centers USA®
Prostate Centers USA® is a leading provider of minimally invasive men’s health care solutions. With a team of renowned physician leaders and state-of-the-art facilities, they deliver exceptional outcomes for men suffering from various urological conditions, including BPH. Through their collaborative approach, they partner with leading urologists across the United States to ensure that patients have access to the best care possible. Their commitment to innovation and patient-centric care has earned them a reputation as the trusted leader in the field of men’s health care. Prostate Centers USA® is a network partner of Hemorrhoid Centers®, Ortho Centers™️ and IR Centers™️. For more information about Prostate Centers USA® and their services, please visit www.ircenters.com.