CompletedPhase IInterventional

Handheld robot for minimally invasive neurosurgery

Pituitary adenomas are brain tumours often removed by keyhole surgery through the nose. This can be tricky due to the tight space. The Panda Surgical Handheld System is a new, small robotic tool that aims to help surgeons work more precisely in these small areas. This first study in humans wants to find out if using the Panda system during standard pituitary surgery is safe and practical. Patients will have their usual NHS surgery, with the Panda tool potentially being used by the surgeon. We'll check the outcomes up to six months after surgery. This study is taking place at The National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery in London.

At a glance

Status

Completed

Phase

Phase I

Sponsor

University College London

Enrolment target

Start

30 Oct 2025

Estimated completion

30 Mar 2026

Pituitary adenoma

What is this study about?

Imagine surgeons trying to remove a small brain tumour through a very narrow opening, like working through a keyhole. This surgery, for a type of growth called a pituitary adenoma, is usually done through the nose. While effective, the tight space can make it hard for surgeons to move their instruments with the ultimate precision needed.

That's where the Panda Surgical Handheld System comes in. It's a new, small robotic tool designed to fit into these tight spaces and give surgeons an extra level of steadiness and accuracy. Think of it as a very skilled assistant for the surgeon's hands, making it easier to carefully remove the tumour while protecting the delicate areas around it.

The main goal of this early study (called a Phase I study) is to see if using the Panda system during standard pituitary surgery is both safe and possible. It's the first time this tool will be used in humans, so we want to make sure it works as intended without causing any new problems. If successful, this technology could potentially help make these surgeries even safer and more effective in the future.

Key takeaways

Testing a new robotic tool called Panda for brain tumour surgery.
Aims to make precise tumour removal easier via keyhole surgery.
First time used in humans, focusing on safety and feasibility.
Participation involves using the device during your standard surgery.
No extra appointments; outcomes checked for 6 months after.
Potential for more precise and safer surgery, but personal benefit not guaranteed yet.

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking for adults aged 18 or older who have been diagnosed with a pituitary adenoma based on an MRI scan. Your specialist team (a group of doctors who discuss your condition) and your neurosurgeon must have agreed that keyhole surgery through your nose (called endoscopic transsphenoidal surgery) is the right treatment for you. You also need to be able to understand the study information and agree to take part, and be able to attend all your planned follow-up appointments.

You won't be able to join if you are under 18 years old, or if you can't give your consent to take part in the study. If your surgery is being done through the skull (transcranial surgery) rather than through the nose, or if you've had similar surgery through the nose in the last year, you won't be eligible. Also, if your MRI shows a different condition, or if you can't have an MRI scan or a special type of MRI with dye, you won't be able to join. Finally, if you have an ongoing infection or a serious long-term health condition that means surgery wouldn't be safe, you won't be able to participate.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you 18 years old or older?
Have you been diagnosed with a pituitary adenoma that needs surgery?
Has your doctor recommended keyhole surgery through your nose?
Can you give your consent (permission) to join the study?
Are you able to attend your regular follow-up appointments?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to take part, your care will follow the usual NHS path for your keyhole surgery. During your operation, the surgeon might use the new Panda handheld device along with their standard tools, to help remove the tumour precisely while looking through a special camera (endoscope). No extra hospital visits beyond your normal care are planned. We will simply keep track of your progress and check your health outcomes for up to six months after your surgery.

Potential risks and benefits

The possible benefits of taking part could include the surgeon being able to remove your tumour more accurately and with more control around important structures. However, because this is a very early study, we can't promise a direct personal benefit to you. We expect the risks to be very similar to standard surgery, as the Panda device is used to assist the surgeon, not replace the standard procedure. You are free to withdraw from the study at any time without it affecting your usual medical care.

Locations (1)

Some site locations are approximate. We're improving this — please verify with the trial team before travelling.

National Hospital for Neurology & Neurosurgery
City only
London, United Kingdom

Common questions

What is a pituitary adenoma?

It's a common, usually non-cancerous growth or tumour on the pituitary gland, a small gland at the base of your brain that controls many body functions.

What is 'keyhole surgery through the nose'?

It's a common surgical method to remove pituitary tumours. Surgeons use special instruments and a camera inserted through your nose and sinuses, avoiding the need to open your skull.

Will the Panda robot do the surgery by itself?

No, the Panda system is a small, handheld tool that helps the surgeon. The surgeon is always in control and uses it alongside their usual instruments to be more precise.

Do I need to do anything extra if I join the study?

No, you don't need any extra hospital visits beyond your normal follow-up care. Your treatment path will be the same as usual.

Where is this study taking place?

This study is being run at The National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery (NHNN) in London, which is a major hospital known for treating pituitary conditions.

How to find out more

John Hanrahan

j.hanrahan@ucl.ac.uk +44 (0)7912220155 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.