Healthcare (Commonwealth Union) _ In a groundbreaking step for medical innovation in East Africa, King Faisal Hospital has introduced the ZEISS KINEVO 900S, the most advanced robotic surgical microscope currently available in the region. This cutting-edge system is set to transform the way brain and spinal surgeries are performed, placing Rwanda at the forefront of high-tech surgical care on the continent.
Designed with unprecedented precision, the ZEISS KINEVO 900S is the only fully equipped system of its kind in East Africa. The technology is already making waves in the operating theatre not just for its technical capabilities but for how it enhances surgical safety, teaching, and long-term healthcare development.
Dr. David Hakizimana, a prominent neurosurgeon at King Faisal Hospital, asserts that the new system represents a revolutionary advancement. He highlights the robotic precision and intelligent tracking features as revolutionary for delicate neurosurgical procedures.
“The microscope automatically follows my surgical instruments and keeps the image centered,” Dr Hakizimana explained. “This means I’m not constantly stopping to readjust the microscope manually, which not only saves precious time but also reduces the risk of surgical error.”
The system’s robotic arm allows real-time tracking of the surgeon’s tools, ensuring that the microscope view remains accurate and stable throughout complex procedures. This makes operations both faster and safer, particularly when dealing with fragile structures in the brain and spinal cord.
One of the most transformative features of the ZEISS KINEVO 900S is its integrated fluorescence imaging system. This technology enables surgeons to clearly distinguish between healthy tissue, tumors, and blood vessels, a critical advancement when performing surgeries in sensitive areas of the brain.
“In some cases, cancerous tissue can look almost identical to normal brain tissue,” said Dr. Hakizimana. “But with fluorescence imaging, those subtle differences become visible, allowing us to remove tumours more completely while protecting essential brain functions.”
Another remarkable feature is the QEVO endoscope, a miniature, flexible camera built into the microscope. This innovation allows surgeons to see into hard-to-reach areas — around corners, behind structures, and in narrow spaces— where traditional microscopes fall short.
“The QEVO gives us eyes where we’ve never had them before,” Dr. Hakizimana said. “It’s helping us access previously hidden surgical fields without having to make larger incisions or risk damaging surrounding tissue.”
Beyond direct patient care, the new microscope is also a major educational tool. The KINEVO 900S can broadcast surgeries in real-time, offering 3D visualizations on large screens or streaming to remote locations. This capability presents fresh opportunities for medical education, surgical mentorship, and telemedicine.
“Junior doctors and medical students can now watch live surgeries in full 3D, whether they’re in the operating room or sitting in a classroom across the country,” Dr. Hakizimana noted.
He emphasized the broader impact the system will have across Rwanda and beyond. By connecting with district hospitals and regional facilities, King Faisal Hospital can support live-streamed surgeries and remote consultations, expanding access to advanced surgical expertise.
“This isn’t just a microscope for our hospital. It’s a national and regional asset,” he said. “We’re using it to build capacity, provide mentorship, and support hospitals that might not have access to neurosurgical expertise.”
With this technological leap, King Faisal Hospital cements its role as a regional leader in medical innovation and excellence. The ZEISS KINEVO 900S is more than just a high-tech tool; it is a symbol of Rwanda’s commitment to elevating healthcare standards, investing in education, and embracing the future of robotic-assisted surgery.
In an era where precision saves lives, the arrival of this robotic microscope marks a new chapter for healthcare in East Africa, one where technology, training, and teamwork converge to offer better outcomes for patients across the region.
