Chronology

Published Aug 3, 2026

Updated Aug 4, 2026

---

Remote Control introduced for all SOLOASSIST systems. 2024.

SOLOASSIST IIS. New version with sterile disposable components Dec 22, 2022.

FDA clearance of SOLOASSIST II + Voice Control. Dec 22, 2020.

FDA clearance of SOLOASSIST II. 510(k) K171947. Sep 21, 2018.

Voice control introduced for the SOLOASSIST family. 2017.

SOLOASSIST II
Smart robotic camera guidance. 2015.

SOLOASSIST I, AKTORmed’s first camera-support system.. 2007.

AKTORmed founded (Germany). 2005.

The SOLOASSIST, developed by German company AKTORmed, is a robotic endoscope holder designed to provide stable, computer-controlled positioning of the surgical camera while leaving both of the surgeon’s hands free. Unlike multi-arm surgical robots such as the da Vinci systems, SOLOASSIST II does not manipulate surgical instruments. Its role is deliberately limited: it holds, positions and guides the endoscope.

The system supports the scope from above the operating field, providing a stable and vibration-free image while leaving space for conventional laparoscopic or endoscopic instruments. The surgeon can control the camera through four different interfaces: manual guidance, joystick, remote control and voice control. The robotic arm provides 360° rotation and up to 90° tilting of the endoscope.

A robotic assistant

SOLOASSIST belongs to the lineage of robotic endoscope holders that includes AESOP, one of the earliest commercially successful robotic camera systems. In its FDA documentation, SOLOASSIST II was explicitly compared with the AESOP 3000 system as its predicate device.

AKTORmed developed SOLOASSIST as a dedicated robotic camera-control platform, with the SOLOASSIST II becoming the company’s principal system. The device was subsequently cleared by the FDA in 2018, although it had already been in clinical use outside the United States.

Korea, 2017

One particularly interesting chapter in the history of SOLOASSIST II took place in South Korea. In December 2017, surgeons at Seoul St. Mary’s Hospital, The Catholic University of Korea, used SOLOASSIST II for transoral endoscopic thyroid surgery. Four thyroid lobectomies were performed using the robotic scope holder. The authors reported a stable, vibration-free view and a reduction of the procedure to a single assistant surgeon.

This is especially relevant to the history of robotic head and neck surgery. The Korean experience showed that a robotic camera holder could be used in a confined transoral surgical field without requiring a complete multi-arm surgical robot.

It also provides an interesting historical counterpoint to today’s discussion about increasingly complex robotic platforms: sometimes the most useful robotic function is simply keeping the camera exactly where the surgeon wants it.

SOLOASSIST II today

AKTORmed currently describes SOLOASSIST II as a robotic camera-control system for visceral, gynecological, urological, cardiac and thoracic surgery. It is compatible with a wide range of endoscopes and operating tables and uses a sterile cover, with most components designed for repeated use and reprocessing.

The later SOLOASSIST IIS follows the same basic concept but introduces sterile disposable components, allowing the system to be used without prior reprocessing and positioning it particularly for procedures requiring immediate availability.

Prior to commencing my venture into robotic surgery, I had established a firm grounding as an oncologic surgeon. My experience encompassed a wide range of resection and reconstructive procedures, as well as proficiency in minimally invasive surgical techniques and endoscopic surgery. These acquired skills and expertise serve as fundamental pillars for achieving success in robotic surgery.

---

Disclaimer and Accuracy Statement

All medical information provided on headneckroboticsurgery.com is uploaded and reviewed by a qualified medical doctor with the utmost care and in good faith. The content is accurate, up-to-date, and intended to offer valuable insights for both health professionals and patients. Specific update dates are noted to ensure transparency and relevance.

If you come across any information that you believe to be inaccurate or outdated, please do not hesitate to contact us directly. We are committed to maintaining the highest standards of accuracy and promptly addressing any concerns.