Shanghai MicroPort MedBot (Group) Co., Ltd. (HKG: 2252) announced that its self‑developed UniPath Electronic Bronchoscopic Surgical Robotic System received approval from China’s National Medical Products Administration (NMPA). The non‑invasive natural orifice transluminal robotic platform enables diagnosis and treatment of early‑stage pulmonary lesions without external incisions.
Regulatory Milestone
Item
Details
Approval Date
26 Dec 2025
Agency
NMPA (China)
Product
UniPath Electronic Bronchoscopic Surgical Robotic System
Early diagnosis and treatment of pulmonary micronodules
Technology
Ultra‑smooth, ultra‑thin snake‑shaped robotic catheter for narrow lesion access
Technology Profile
Feature
UniPath System
Clinical Advantage
Access Method
Natural orifice (no body surface wounds)
Reduces patient trauma, infection risk, recovery time
Catheter Design
Ultra‑thin, snake‑shaped robotic catheter
Reaches peripheral bronchioles and deep lung segments
Core Technologies
Robotic precision control, flexible navigation, intelligent path planning, closed‑loop control
Full lung accessibility, full visualization, precise alignment
Operational Capability
Stable operation under dynamic breathing conditions
Enables high‑certainty access, puncture, and ablation
Market Positioning
First domestic bronchoscopic surgical robot
Addresses unmet need in early lung cancer diagnosis
Market Opportunity
Metric
Value
Context
China Lung Cancer Incidence
~800,000 new cases annually (2025)
Early-stage detection critical for survival
Pulmonary Micronodules
30‑40% of CT scans reveal small nodules
High demand for minimally invasive diagnostic tools
Surgical Robot Market
¥2‑3 billion (≈ US$280‑420 M)
Growing at 25‑30% CAGR in China
UniPath Peak Sales
¥800 million‑1.2 billion (≈ US$112‑170 M)** by 2030
25‑30% share of bronchoscopic robot segment
Competitive Advantage
First NMPA‑approved domestic system vs. imported Intuitive Ion
Cost advantage and localization support
Policy Support
NMPA Innovative Medical Device pathway
3‑year regulatory exclusivity
Strategic Implications
For MicroPort MedBot:NMPA approval validates proprietary robotic platform; first‑mover advantage in domestic bronchoscopic segment; strengthens comprehensive surgical robot portfolio (cardiac, orthopedic, neurosurgery); positions for global expansion with cost‑effective innovation.
For Physicians:5‑minute setup reduces procedure time; intelligent navigation lowers learning curve; enables precise biopsy and ablation of peripheral lesions previously inaccessible; non‑invasive approach expands eligible patient population.
For Patients:No surgical incision reduces pain and recovery; early diagnosis improves lung cancer survival rates; lower cost vs. open surgery; dynamic breathing compensation enhances safety.
Forward‑Looking Statements This brief contains forward‑looking statements regarding UniPath’s commercial launch timeline, market penetration, and competitive positioning. Actual results may differ due to regulatory feedback, competitive responses, or adoption rates among hospitals.-Fineline Info & Tech
By Fineline Cube