29th/05/2025

By Dr. David Hakizimana, Neurosurgeon, King Faisal Hospital

We are pleased to announce that King Faisal Hospital Rwanda has acquired the ZEISS KINEVO 900S, the most advanced robotic surgical microscope available today. This device represents a major technological  and clinical breakthrough not only for our hospital but for the entire region. Importantly, this is the only fully equipped KINEVO 900S microscope currently available in the entire East African region, positioning Rwanda at the forefront of high-precision, robot-assisted surgery in
Africa. Below are key benefits of this new microscope.
1. Better Patient Care with Robotic Precision and Fluorescence Technology
Higher Accuracy: The microscope uses robotic movements to automatically follow the surgeon’s instruments, and track microsurgical sites during procedures. This allows more precise operations, especially in delicate areas of the brain and spine, minimizing damage to surrounding tissues. Better Outcomes: The robotic system adjusts and centers the image in real-time without needing the surgeon to manually move the equipment—helping reduce surgery time and complications.
Improved Safety: Robotic stabilization reduces surgeon fatigue and ensures steadier hands during long, complex procedures. Fluorescence Imaging: Advanced built-in fluorescence (BLUE 400S, INFRARED 800, YELLOW 560) helps neurosurgeons clearly distinguish between tumors, blood vessels, and healthy tissue even when they look similar to the naked eye. This means more complete tumor removal and better protection of critical brain functions.  Enhanced Visualization with Integrated endoscopic (QEVO) Tool: The KINEVO 900S includes the QEVO micro-inspection tool – a tiny, flexible endoscope built into the system. QEVO allows surgeons to “look around corners” inside the brain or spine, visualizing areas that traditional microscopes cannot reach. This ensures that no hidden tumor or vessel is missed, increasing surgical completeness and safety.
2. Better Training for Rwandan Surgeons
Live Teaching: A large 3D screen shows exactly what the surgeon sees, allowing students and junior doctors to learn during real surgeries.

Remote Education: The microscope can stream surgeries live to all digital platforms, so training can reach doctors in other hospitals across the country or even abroad.
Recorded Surgeries: With the ability to save 4K video recordings, the microscope supports local research
and international academic exchange.
3. Greater Surgical Efficiency
Time-Saving Features: The robotic system responds to voice commands and foot controls, so the surgeon doesn’t have to pause to reposition the microscope. This shortens surgery time and improves workflow.
Quick Setup: Preset modes and automated functions make it faster to prepare the operating room and begin surgery.
4. A Major Asset for Rwanda’s Health System
Regional Leadership in Surgery: With this robotic microscope, King Faisal Hospital becomes one of the best-equipped surgical centers in the region.  Support for Other Hospitals: Through livestream and tele-surgery options, our experts can guide and assist teams in district or teaching hospitals in real time. Boost to Medical Tourism: Offering robotic-assisted surgery attracts both patients and medical professionals from neighboring countries, enhancing Rwanda’s reputation as a healthcare leader. In summary, this robotic microscope is more than an advanced tool—it’s a leap forward for safer surgeries, better teaching, and stronger national capacity in specialized healthcare.