Restoration Robotics has received FDA approval for its ARTAS system for harvesting hair follicles from the scalp. The system is used in hair transplantation procedures in men with androgenetic alopecia (regular male baldness pattern) with black or brown straight hair. Follicular units are harvested using the system from hair-bearing skin from the back and/or sides of the scalp. These are then implanted into the bald or thinning area of the scalp after which hairs start to grow by 3-4 months after the procedure. From the press release:
ARTAS™ is a physician-controlled, state-of-the-art, interactive, computer-assisted system that enables harvesting of hair follicles during hair restoration procedures. It combines several features including an image-guided robotic arm, special imaging technologies, small dermal punches, and a computer interface. The ARTAS™ System is capable of identifying and harvesting individual follicular units to implement the follicular unit extraction (FUE) technique.
“Many patients are seeking less invasive alternatives to the current hair restoration techniques,” said Miguel Canales, MD, Medical Director, Restoration Robotics. “There is growing interest in FUE because of its many patient benefits, such as less discomfort and a quicker return to normal activities. The ARTAS™ System solves many of the technical challenges experienced by physicians currently attempting the FUE procedure which gives physicians and patients an exciting new choice.”
Hair restoration is performed as an office-based procedure. Implanted hairs develop their own blood supply, begin to grow and new hairs are seen a few months after the procedure. New hair continues to grow over the course of a full year, making the change in the patient’s appearance gradually noticeable to others.
Press release: ARTAS System Receives FDA Clearance for Ground-Breaking Technology Treating Hair Loss…
Product page: ARTAS System…