SurgiQuest Signs a Development and Supply Agreement with Intuitive Surgical for MIS Access Utilizing the AirSeal(TM) Technology

ORANGE, Conn., Jan. 19 /PRNewswire/ -- SurgiQuest, Inc. is pleased to announce it has entered into a development and supply agreement with Intuitive Surgical, Inc. (Nasdaq: ISRG) in which SurgiQuest will develop a disposable access system using AirSeal(TM) technology for use with Intuitive's laparoscopic surgical robot.

SurgiQuest's technology offers superior access during minimally invasive surgical procedures because it allows the surgeon to operate with an unprecedented degree of freedom. The AirSeal system accommodates multiple instruments of any shape or size through a single port simultaneously. In addition to stable pneumoperitoneum, surgeons have expressed a preference for the platform on the basis that it facilitates unencumbered access and visualization.

"We are excited about the opportunity to partner with Intuitive Surgical and expand our revolutionary AirSeal platform beyond conventional laparoscopic surgery and into the rapidly growing field of robotic surgery -- a new and exciting area for us," stated Kurt Azarbarzin, Founder and CEO of SurgiQuest, Inc. "Intuitive Surgical's robot, combined with SurgiQuest AirSeal technology, will be the system of choice for laparoscopic surgery."

About SurgiQuest:

SurgiQuest, Inc. is a private venture-backed company, founded in May 2006. It develops, manufactures, and markets innovative technology for minimally invasive surgery.

SurgiQuest's patented AirSeal(TM) access system presents a significant technological breakthrough in minimally invasive surgery (MIS). The AirSeal system provides unobstructed access to the abdominal cavity and dramatically reduces variations of intra-abdominal pressure due to its ability to completely eliminate seals and gaskets. SurgiQuest's unique and unencumbered approach to MIS enables new surgical approaches, such as single incision surgery as well as a host of new instrument platforms.

http://www.surgiquest.com

SOURCE SurgiQuest, Inc.

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