Medisch Spectrum Twente (MST), a leading hospital in the east of the Netherlands, is home to a number of highly skilled OR teams dedicated to delivering top-tier surgical care. With 12 operating rooms and a team of over 200 professionals providing a wide range of surgical treatments, MST has one of the largest OR complexes in the country.

To stay at the forefront of surgical care, MST embraces innovation. Two experienced OR nurses, Laura and Marjolein, with nearly 35 years of combined expertise, have played a key role in this transformation. As project leaders for Incision Assist, they successfully implemented the new platform, now used across all service lines at the hospital, fundamentally changing how the OR team prepares and collaborates.

Innovation in the OR: The Impact of Incision Assist at MST

Four years ago, MST became a development partner for Incision Assist, a digital platform that supports OR teams in preparing for surgical procedures using customized, visual, user-friendly technology. This transition marked a major improvement in both efficiency and collaboration within the OR.

Shifting from paper-based protocols to a digital approach brought a significant change for MST. What was once manually recorded in binders and notebooks is now centrally accessible through Incision Assist.

"At first, it took some time to get used to the digital transition, but we quickly saw the benefits," says Laura. "It became so much easier to update and share protocols with the team."

Introduction of the ExcelsiusGPS™ Globus Robot: A Collaborative Effort

When MST introduced the ExcelsiusGPS™ Globus robot for complex spinal surgeries, the neurosurgical team faced a significant challenge: how to quickly and efficiently roll out a brand new way of working. Laura and Marjolein played a crucial role in creating a new protocol within Incision Assist to record and share their new custom workflows with the team. 

"With photos and detailed notes, we documented each step of the procedure," Marjolein explains. "Continuous feedback from the team helped us refine the process even further."

Using Incision Assist ensured a smooth and efficient introduction of the Globus robot. Thanks to the detailed protocol and close collaboration with the team, onboarding this advanced technology was seamless and hassle-free.

More Confidence and Collaboration Within the Team

The integration of the Globus robot in Incision Assist has not only driven technological progress but has also significantly strengthened teamwork in the OR. With Incision Assist, both new and experienced team members have immediate access to the same information, allowing everyone to operate at the same level from the start.

"We use the app as part of onboarding new team members," Laura explains. "This way, everyone understands how everything works from day one, ensuring smooth collaboration, even when staff change or new technologies are introduced."

An Indispensable Tool to Drive Continuous Improvement

What makes Incision Assist so valuable is its ability to drive continuous improvement. For MST’s team, the app is more than just a tool—it’s an essential part of their daily work. Protocols are constantly updated and improved based on team feedback.

"The app has become indispensable," says Marjolein. "It’s fantastic that we can adjust protocols as needed. Colleagues provide input on what can be improved, and we implement those changes right away. This allows us to keep evolving."

The Future of Surgical Care: Technology and Collaboration Go Hand in Hand

MST’s success with Incision Assist demonstrates how technology and teamwork can help transform surgical care. The introduction of the Globus robot was not only seamless, but the app also enhanced efficiency and strengthened team collaboration.

MST is a great example of how digital tools like Assist can boost teamwork, accelerate onboarding, and foster a culture of continuous improvement. With the right technology and support, teams are fully equipped to manage change and continue to offer the highest quality care to their patients—now and in many years to come.

Curious about what Incision Assist can do for your hospital? Contact us at hi@incision.care or reach out to Laura (L.Spenkelink@mst.nl) or Marjolein (marjolein.graff-eaglen@mst.nl) for more information.