AdventHealth Rocky Mountain Region Epilepsy Center introduces new technology to transform epilepsy surgery

The AdventHealth Rocky Mountain Region Epilepsy Center has a new tool designed to enhance the accuracy and efficiency of epilepsy surgeries.

The Renishaw Neuromate is the world’s first FDA-approved stereotactic robot for neurosurgical procedures.

On Tuesday, May 13, neurosurgeon Abhijeet Gummadavelli, MD, performed his first surgery with the new robot at AdventHealth Littleton.

The stereotactic EEG (sEEG) procedure involved implanting leads in a patient to identify which part of the brain is causing seizures.

“The previous way we were doing these surgeries, patients had a 3-D printed frame fitted to their head, guiding where to put the electrodes,” said Dr. Gummadavelli. “One of the significant advantages of the Renishaw robot is we no longer need the frame because of its ability to provide more precise placement of electrodes. This reduces the risk of complications.”

The robot also allows for adjustments and new trajectories during surgery, making it more adaptive compared to the previous method.

“The way we did these procedures before, patients almost always had to shave their head. Now with this new robot, that is no longer necessary,” said Dr. Gummadavelli. “I have some patients who were specifically waiting on this before scheduling surgery. We are thrilled to be able to offer patients an option that will have such a positive impact on their quality of life.”

Besides sEEG, the Renishaw Neuromate will be used for a variety of other epilepsy procedures. Thanks to its ability to bring additional accuracy and ease to the process, the surgeries will be less invasive and more patient friendly.

“This is going to be great for patients, and it’s wonderful we are able to bring them some of the newest technologies,” said Dr. Gummadavelli.

This investment was funded as part of the AdventHealth Littleton Foundation’s Brain Matters campaign, a transformative initiative that aims to advance neurological care both locally and globally.

With $5.3 million raised, the campaign has significantly enhanced the Rocky Mountain Region Epilepsy Center, enabling the development of life-saving neurosurgical treatments and innovative care models.

Since its launch in 2018, Brain Matters has improved access to advanced treatments, supported patient-centered care through roles like the Epilepsy Program Coordinator, and positioned AdventHealth as a leader in neurological health innovation.

Learn more about the AdventHealth Rocky Mountain Region Epilepsy Center by clicking here.