WVU Medicine United Hospital Center Enhances Surgical Precision with New Surgical System
By Connect-Bridgeport Staff on April 24, 2026
WVU Medicine United Hospital Center (UHC) is proud to announce the acquisition of the Stealth AXiS™ Surgical System, a state-of-the-art platform that integrates artificial intelligence (AI), advanced navigation, and robotic-assisted execution for complex spine and cranial procedures.
The Stealth AXiS™ system, recently cleared by the FDA in early 2026, represents a significant leap forward in surgical technology. It is the first platform to natively unify preoperative planning with real-time robotic navigation.
By utilizing industry-first LiveAlign™ segmental tracking, the system allows surgeons to visualize anatomic motion and patient alignment in real time without the need for repeated intraoperative imaging, significantly reducing radiation exposure for both patients and staff.
"The introduction of the Stealth AXiS™ system at UHC marks a transformative moment for our neurosurgical teams," said Bill D. Underwood, MD, PhD, neurosurgeon at the UHC Neurosurgery, Spine, and Pain Center. "Spinal and cranial surgeries demand an extraordinary level of accuracy. This technology provides us with a high-fidelity 'digital cockpit,' allowing for real-time visibility into how a patient’s anatomy moves during a procedure. It ensures we can execute our surgical plans with remarkable precision while maintaining a minimally invasive approach that speeds up patient recovery".
The acquisition follows UHC's recent announcement of a $48 million outpatient surgery center project, which will include eight operating rooms equipped with advanced robotic capabilities.
This investment reinforces UHC’s position as a regional hub for world-class medical care in north-central West Virginia.
"Our mission at UHC is to ensure that residents of West Virginia have access to the same cutting-edge technology found at the world's leading medical institutions," said David F. Hess, MD, CEO United Hospital Center, Regional President of the Central Region for West Virginia University Health System. "The Stealth AXiS™ system is a cornerstone of our commitment to clinical excellence and patient safety. By equipping our elite surgeons with the best tools available, we are not only improving surgical outcomes but also enhancing the overall patient experience right here in our community".
