VIC's MIRA Surgical System in the News!

Hoag Becomes First Hospital in the Western U.S. to Offer World’s First Miniaturized Robotic-Assisted Surgery Device

Hoag's participation in the MIRA First Access Program highlights the hospital's continued commitment to innovation, excellence, and improving the health and well-being of patients.

NEWPORT BEACH, Calif. (Feb. 26, 2025) - Hoag announced that it has expanded its robotic-assisted surgery (RAS) offerings for minimally invasive colectomy procedures with the MIRA™ Surgical System (MIRA), the world's first miniaturized robotic-assisted surgery (miniRAS) device. Hoag is the first in the Western U.S. to offer this cutting-edge technology that enhances minimally invasive surgery by providing greater precision and control.

"At Hoag, our dedication to patient care drives us to continually integrate the most advanced, minimally invasive technologies into our practice," said Elizabeth Raskin, M.D., Surgical Director for the Margolis Family Inflammatory Bowel Disease Program, part of the Hoag Digestive Health Institute. "With the addition of the MIRA Surgical System, we're not just enhancing our surgical capabilities - we're expanding access to the life-changing benefits of minimally invasive surgery, ensuring more patients can experience improved outcomes and a higher quality of life."

Hoag is a national leader in robotic assisted surgery, with more than 30,000 surgeries completed using the technology to date. It offers numerous benefits compared to open surgery, including shorter hospital stays, reduced pain and discomfort, faster recovery times, and smaller incisions.

"As leaders in the field of digestive health, we recognize the importance of continuously pushing the boundaries of what's possible in patient care," said Kenneth J. Chang, M.D., James & Pamela Muzzy Executive Medical Director Endowed Chair in GI Cancer, Digestive Health Institute. "The adoption of the MIRA Surgical System is yet another example of our commitment to delivering innovative solutions that improve patient outcomes and advance the standard of care."

As a designated Center of Excellence in Robotic Surgery (COERS), Hoag has demonstrated expertise in robotic-assisted surgeries, meeting high standards in patient care, surgical outcomes, and safety protocols. The addition of MIRA underscores Hoag's commitment to advancing RAS practices with innovative technology and techniques. The compact and portable nature of the MIRA system is designed for easier integration into surgical settings, significantly improving access to robotic-assisted surgery for patients who may have previously faced barriers.

"Dr. Raskin and Hoag were selected to be part of the MIRA First Access Program because of their unwavering commitment to excellence in surgical care," said Piet Hinoul M.D., Ph.D., chief medical officer of Virtual Incision. "Dr. Raskin is a pioneer in laparoscopy and robotic-assisted surgery and has consistently been at the forefront of minimally invasive techniques. Hoag has a reputation for being a progressive institution and a leader in bringing new technologies to their patients in a thoughtful and safe fashion, and we are thrilled to have them join us in the journey of expanded access to robotic-assisted surgery through miniaturization."

The MIRA Surgical System was partially funded by Hoag Innovators, a group of community leaders dedicated to catalyzing innovation at Hoag through the power of collective giving. Their support plays a crucial role in advancing surgical capabilities and improving patient care.

To learn more about Hoag Digestive Health Institute, visit hoag.org/digestive.