ISS ORTHODOC System Now Able to Plan Osteotomy Surgeries

Integrated Surgical Systems, Inc. (ISS) (Nasdaq: RDOC; EASDAQ), a pioneer in medical robotics and the world leader in image-directed, semi-autonomous robotic products for surgical applications, introduced a unique software package for planning for Osteotomy surgeries utilizing its ORTHODOC(R) Presurgical Planning System.

The software package was introduced at the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons (AAOS) meeting held February 4-6, 1999 in Anaheim, Calif.

Osteotomy, in general, is a surgically controlled fracture utilizing geometrically correct cuts in bones to achieve a more normal joint alignment. It is believed that tens of thousands of osteotomies are performed annually. "Osteotomies are typically performed to relieve pain and also correct for angular deformities which, if untreated, could lead to non-symmetrical wear of a joint and ultimately to premature arthritis," said Dr. Ramesh Trivedi, President and Chief Executive Officer of ISS.

"We developed this software with the help and clinical input from Richard Santore, M.D., currently President of Western Orthopedic Association and a clinical professor of orthopedics at UC San Diego," added Dr. Trivedi.

Commenting on the clinical need and the benefits of this planning software package, Dr. Santore stated, "Osteotomies are generally one of the most difficult surgeries to plan due to the variables of angulation, displacement, offset, and limb-length -- all of which need to be part of the preoperative plan.

Computer-based planning substantially aids this process. The ability to plan with a standard 2-D x-ray film from different sources and adjust for magnification are some of the key features of this software. The surgeon will now be able to plan for several iterations of surgeries and assess the possible outcomes."

"With the availability of this planning module, as clinicians, we will now be able to perform osteotomies more reliably and, consequently, save young patients from premature total joint replacement surgeries," added Dr. Santore.

"This software will be made available for clinical investigation in the U.S. until Food and Drug Administration (FDA) clearance is secured. Clearance is anticipated in the second quarter of this year," concluded Dr. Trivedi.

The Company Integrated Surgical Systems, Inc. develops, manufactures, markets and services computer-controlled, image-directed robotic products for surgical applications. ISS produces the ROBODOC(R) Surgical Assistant System (ROBODOC(R)), which is designed for orthopedic applications.

The ROBODOC(R) System has been used to perform precise total hip replacement surgeries on more than 3,500 patients worldwide. ROBODOC is currently being marketed in Europe. NeuroMate(TM), ISS' neurosurgery product, is the first robotic technology for use in stereotactic brain surgery. NeuroMate consists of a robotic arm assembly and a PC-based positioning system. The product interfaces to popular pre-surgical planning stations, which are offered by a number of third-party vendors. ISS has installed 10 NeuroMate systems in the U.S., France and Japan, which have supported neurosurgical procedures on more than 1,800 patients, to date.

Except for the historical information contained herein, the matters discussed in this news release are forward-looking statements that involve risks and uncertainties, including the timely development and market acceptance of new products and upgrades to existing products, the impact of competitive products and pricing, and other risks detailed from time to time in the company's filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC).

Note: ROBODOC(R) is registered trademark of Integrated Surgical Systems, Inc. NeuroMate(TM) is a trademark of Innovative Medical Machines International, S.A.

Source: Integrated Surgical Systems, Inc. CO: Integrated Surgical Systems, Inc.; The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons.