RESEARCH TRIANGLE PARK, N.C. – TransEnterix’s revolutionary laparoscopic surgical platform that allows surgeons to perform minimally invasive abdominal procedures entirely through the umbilicus, leaving no visible scar, has been recognized as an “Innovation of the Year” by the Society of Laparoendoscopic Surgeons.

The Society recognized TransEnterix and its SPIDER® System – which stands for Single Port Instrument Delivery Extended Reach – today during its annual conference. Todd M. Pope, president and CEO, accepted the award on the company’s behalf. TransEnterix was one of only three recipients of this prestigious Society designation.

SPIDER is the first single-port platform that offers surgeons true triangulation and other critical techniques common in multi-port laparoscopy. Conventional laparoscopic surgery typically involves three to five incisions, which leave small scars in a patient’s abdomen. Surgeons in the United States perform more than 2.5 million laparoscopic procedures each year.  TransEnterix will market its platform starting early next year.

Potential benefits of single-port laparoscopic technology include faster full recovery, less post-surgical pain, fewer complications and an improved aesthetic result.

“Since TransEnterix’s start, we have collaborated closely with nationally renowned physicians to create a platform that will completely change minimally invasive abdominal surgery as we know it,” Pope said.“We are honored that the Society of Laparoendoscopic Surgeons has recognized the SPIDER System and look forward to sharing more about the platform with our colleagues during the conference.”

TransEnterix partners with the world’s leading physicians to rapidly develop pioneering technologies that revolutionize minimally invasive surgery. The company relies on rapid prototyping, intense pre-clinical labs and hands-on collaboration with expert surgeons to accelerate learning and bring a device to market more quickly. TransEnterix has secured $21 million in Series A venture capital funding. To learn more about TransEnterix, visit online at http://www.transenterix.com.

Each year, the Society of Laparendoscopic Surgeons recognizes innovative products that have a multi-disciplinary application in minimally invasive surgery. Products are selected for informational purposes only; the Society does not endorse or approve products, and encourages surgeons to investigate new equipment for safety and suitability for their particular practices and needs.

The Society of Laparoendoscopic Surgeons is an educational, non-profit organization that seeks to ensure the highest standards for the practice of laparoscopic, endoscopic and minimally invasive surgery. The Society serves surgeons from various specialties and other health professionals interested in advancing their expertise in the diagnostic and therapeutic uses of laparoendoscopic and minimally invasive surgical techniques. With an international membership of more than 6,000 surgeons, the Society offers a unique approach to the study and education of minimally invasive surgery by bringing together different medical specialties that use such techniques and tools.