Intuitive Collaborates with Deion “Coach Prime” Sanders to Raise Patient Awareness of Surgical Options

Intuitive (NASDAQ: ISRG), a global technology leader in minimally invasive care and the pioneer of robotic-assisted surgery, today announced a collaboration with Deion “Coach Prime” Sanders to help increase patient awareness and understanding of surgical options, including robotic-assisted surgery with da Vinci systems. Surgical decisions following a diagnosis are among the most complex, emotional, and time-sensitive that patients and their families face, yet independent research shows many patients struggle to find clear, trustworthy information about robotic-assisted surgery. This collaboration aims to increase patient and caregiver awareness and understanding of surgical options, supporting more informed conversations between patients and their physicians and, ultimately, more confident decision-making. In 2025, after being diagnosed with bladder cancer, Coach Prime chose to undergo robotic surgery with da Vinci following discussions with his physician about his available options and the risks and benefits associated with each. His choice was based on what mattered most to him, including his recovery and returning to his daily life and responsibilities. “When I was diagnosed, I learned quickly that you have choices when it comes to surgery, but not every patient knows to ask about them,” said Coach Prime. “I want to inspire others to talk with their doctors, ask questions, and understand what’s possible.” Coach Prime is now using his experience to help others facing health diagnoses and decisions better understand their options – encouraging patients to seek information, ask questions, and engage in informed discussions with their physicians about their care. “Patients deserve to understand the surgical options available to them and how those options may align with what matters most in their lives,” said Jaime Wong, MD, Chief Medical Officer at Intuitive. “Hearing how others navigated similar decisions can help make complex choices feel more tangible and less overwhelming. When patients are informed, they have more meaningful conversations with their physicians and make decisions with greater confidence.” More than 20 million patients worldwide have been operated on by surgeons using da Vinci systems. When performed by a trained surgeon, robotic-assisted surgery with da Vinci systems can help enable more precise and less invasive surgery, compared to open surgery, and depending on the procedure, may result in fewer complications, shorter recovery time and less pain. Patients can learn more at davincisurgery.com. Jaime Wong, MD, Chief Medical Officer at Intuitive, shares his perspective on patient empowerment and how patients can have meaningful conversations with their physicians about surgical options.