Quick Overview
- 1#1: Epic OpTime - Comprehensive perioperative module within Epic EHR for surgical scheduling, documentation, and workflow management in hospitals.
- 2#2: Cerner SurgiNet - Perioperative solution for managing surgical cases, anesthesia, and OR efficiency across healthcare enterprises.
- 3#3: Surgical Information Systems (SIS) - Specialized perioperative EMR designed for ambulatory surgery centers and hospitals to streamline operations and compliance.
- 4#4: Picis - Acute and perioperative care software providing real-time clinical decision support and OR management.
- 5#5: Brainlab - Digital surgery platform offering navigation, planning, and imaging integration for precise surgical procedures.
- 6#6: Stryker Mako - Robotic-assisted orthopedic surgery system with advanced planning and navigation software for joint replacements.
- 7#7: Medtronic StealthStation - Optical and electromagnetic surgical navigation system enhancing accuracy in neurosurgery and ENT procedures.
- 8#8: Touch Surgery - Augmented reality surgical simulator for training and rehearsal of over 200 procedures across specialties.
- 9#9: Surgical Theater - Immersive VR platform for patient-specific surgical planning, rehearsal, and family education.
- 10#10: OsiriX MD - FDA-cleared DICOM viewer with advanced 3D rendering for preoperative surgical planning and image analysis.
Tools were selected based on a balanced assessment of their core features, clinical utility, user experience, and overall value, ensuring they represent the most innovative and reliable solutions in the field.
Comparison Table
Surgery software is a critical tool for optimizing surgical workflows, and a comparison table highlights leading options such as Epic OpTime, Cerner SurgiNet, Surgical Information Systems (SIS), Picis, and Braillance. This table outlines key features—from scheduling and documentation to interoperability—enabling healthcare teams to identify tools that align with their facility’s needs. Readers will gain actionable insights to evaluate strengths, ultimately supporting data-driven decisions for enhancing operational efficiency.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Epic OpTime Comprehensive perioperative module within Epic EHR for surgical scheduling, documentation, and workflow management in hospitals. | enterprise | 9.4/10 | 9.8/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 2 | Cerner SurgiNet Perioperative solution for managing surgical cases, anesthesia, and OR efficiency across healthcare enterprises. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.4/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 3 | Surgical Information Systems (SIS) Specialized perioperative EMR designed for ambulatory surgery centers and hospitals to streamline operations and compliance. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 4 | Picis Acute and perioperative care software providing real-time clinical decision support and OR management. | enterprise | 8.7 | 9.2 | 7.8 | 8 |
| 5 | Brainlab Digital surgery platform offering navigation, planning, and imaging integration for precise surgical procedures. | enterprise | 8.6/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.7/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 6 | Stryker Mako Robotic-assisted orthopedic surgery system with advanced planning and navigation software for joint replacements. | enterprise | 9.1/10 | 9.6/10 | 8.4/10 | 7.8/10 |
| 7 | Medtronic StealthStation Optical and electromagnetic surgical navigation system enhancing accuracy in neurosurgery and ENT procedures. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 8 | Touch Surgery Augmented reality surgical simulator for training and rehearsal of over 200 procedures across specialties. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 8.8/10 | 9.2/10 |
| 9 | Surgical Theater Immersive VR platform for patient-specific surgical planning, rehearsal, and family education. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.3/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 10 | OsiriX MD FDA-cleared DICOM viewer with advanced 3D rendering for preoperative surgical planning and image analysis. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 8.5/10 | 6.8/10 | 7.5/10 |
Comprehensive perioperative module within Epic EHR for surgical scheduling, documentation, and workflow management in hospitals.
Perioperative solution for managing surgical cases, anesthesia, and OR efficiency across healthcare enterprises.
Specialized perioperative EMR designed for ambulatory surgery centers and hospitals to streamline operations and compliance.
Acute and perioperative care software providing real-time clinical decision support and OR management.
Digital surgery platform offering navigation, planning, and imaging integration for precise surgical procedures.
Robotic-assisted orthopedic surgery system with advanced planning and navigation software for joint replacements.
Optical and electromagnetic surgical navigation system enhancing accuracy in neurosurgery and ENT procedures.
Augmented reality surgical simulator for training and rehearsal of over 200 procedures across specialties.
Immersive VR platform for patient-specific surgical planning, rehearsal, and family education.
FDA-cleared DICOM viewer with advanced 3D rendering for preoperative surgical planning and image analysis.
Epic OpTime
enterpriseComprehensive perioperative module within Epic EHR for surgical scheduling, documentation, and workflow management in hospitals.
Intraoperative charting with Canvas views for customizable, real-time documentation and decision support integrated across the Epic ecosystem
Epic OpTime is a leading perioperative module within the Epic EHR platform, designed to streamline surgical workflows from pre-op scheduling to post-op recovery. It provides comprehensive tools for operating room management, intraoperative documentation, anesthesia tracking, and inventory control. As part of Epic's integrated ecosystem, OpTime ensures real-time data sharing across clinical teams, enhancing efficiency and patient safety in high-volume surgical environments.
Pros
- Seamless integration with Epic EHR for unified patient data across perioperative phases
- Advanced OR scheduling, preference card management, and real-time inventory tracking
- Robust analytics, reporting, and compliance tools tailored for surgical workflows
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring extensive training and customization
- High implementation and ongoing costs suited only for large enterprises
- Less intuitive interface compared to standalone surgery software
Best For
Large hospitals and health systems already using Epic EHR that need a fully integrated, enterprise-grade solution for managing complex surgical operations.
Pricing
Custom enterprise licensing with multi-year contracts; pricing not publicly disclosed but typically involves high upfront implementation fees starting in the millions for large deployments.
Cerner SurgiNet
enterprisePerioperative solution for managing surgical cases, anesthesia, and OR efficiency across healthcare enterprises.
Integrated perioperative workflow engine with real-time OR block management and predictive analytics
Cerner SurgiNet is a robust perioperative software solution from Cerner that streamlines surgical workflows across the continuum of care, from preoperative planning and scheduling to intraoperative management and postoperative tracking. It integrates deeply with Cerner's Millennium EHR platform, enabling seamless access to patient data, anesthesia documentation, inventory management, and supply chain optimization. Designed for large-scale healthcare systems, it provides advanced analytics for OR utilization, case costing, and performance benchmarking to improve efficiency and outcomes.
Pros
- Seamless integration with Cerner Millennium EHR for unified patient data and workflows
- Comprehensive perioperative tools including OR scheduling, anesthesia management, and inventory tracking
- Powerful analytics and reporting for surgical performance, utilization, and cost optimization
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex implementation requiring extensive customization
- High upfront costs and long deployment timelines unsuitable for smaller facilities
- Limited flexibility for non-Cerner EHR environments
Best For
Large hospitals and integrated health systems seeking enterprise-grade, EHR-integrated surgical management.
Pricing
Enterprise custom pricing with significant implementation costs (often $1M+), plus annual subscriptions based on beds/users.
Surgical Information Systems (SIS)
enterpriseSpecialized perioperative EMR designed for ambulatory surgery centers and hospitals to streamline operations and compliance.
SIS Analytics platform for real-time perioperative intelligence and benchmarking
Surgical Information Systems (SIS) offers a comprehensive perioperative software suite designed specifically for hospitals and ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs), covering everything from scheduling and inventory management to clinical documentation and analytics. It streamlines surgical workflows, ensures regulatory compliance, and provides real-time insights to optimize operating room efficiency. SIS is widely used in the U.S. for its robust integration with EHRs and focus on perioperative data management.
Pros
- Comprehensive perioperative suite with advanced analytics and reporting
- Strong integration with major EHR systems like Epic and Cerner
- Proven track record in compliance and efficiency improvements for ORs
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users due to extensive customization options
- High implementation costs and long setup times
- Limited scalability for very small practices
Best For
Mid-to-large hospitals and ASCs needing an enterprise-grade perioperative management system with deep analytics.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing via quote; typically subscription-based starting at $100K+ annually depending on facility size and modules.
Picis
enterpriseAcute and perioperative care software providing real-time clinical decision support and OR management.
Advanced Anesthesia Information Management System (AIMS) with automated charting, vital signs monitoring, and seamless handoff protocols
Picis provides the Perioperative CareSuite, a comprehensive software platform designed specifically for surgical environments, including anesthesia information management (AIMS), perioperative scheduling, inventory management, and compliance reporting. It streamlines workflows from pre-op to post-op, enabling real-time data capture and integration with EHR systems. Targeted at hospitals and ambulatory surgery centers, it enhances OR efficiency and patient safety through advanced analytics and automation.
Pros
- Robust anesthesia documentation and handoff tools reduce errors and improve compliance
- Seamless integration with EHRs and other hospital systems for unified perioperative data
- Advanced analytics for OR utilization, block time management, and cost tracking
Cons
- Complex implementation process requiring significant IT resources and training
- High upfront costs and ongoing fees for enterprise-scale deployments
- Interface can feel dated compared to modern cloud-native competitors
Best For
Large hospitals and ambulatory surgery centers seeking specialized perioperative IT to optimize OR throughput and anesthesia workflows.
Pricing
Enterprise-level custom pricing; modular subscriptions typically range from $50,000+ annually per OR suite, based on facility size and modules—contact sales for quote.
Brainlab
enterpriseDigital surgery platform offering navigation, planning, and imaging integration for precise surgical procedures.
AI-powered automatic trajectory planning and multimodal image fusion in iPlan for rapid, precise preoperative strategies
Brainlab offers a suite of digital surgery software solutions focused on image-guided surgery, including preoperative planning with iPlan, intraoperative navigation via Curve and Kick systems, and visualization tools for neurosurgery, spine, orthopedics, and ENT procedures. The platform integrates multimodal imaging, AI-driven planning, and mixed reality to enhance surgical precision and workflow efficiency. It supports everything from trajectory planning to real-time navigation and postoperative documentation, reducing risks in complex interventions.
Pros
- Exceptional precision in navigation and planning with AI enhancements
- Seamless integration across planning, navigation, and imaging ecosystems
- Proven outcomes in reducing surgery time and complications
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring extensive training
- High upfront costs for software and compatible hardware
- Primarily suited for high-volume surgical centers, less ideal for smaller practices
Best For
Large hospitals and specialized surgical teams handling complex neurosurgical, orthopedic, and ENT procedures that demand sub-millimeter accuracy.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing starting at $100,000+ for software suites, plus hardware; quotes required based on modules and installations.
Stryker Mako
enterpriseRobotic-assisted orthopedic surgery system with advanced planning and navigation software for joint replacements.
AccuStop haptic technology for real-time tactile boundaries that prevent unplanned bone resections
Stryker Mako is a robotic-assisted surgery platform specializing in orthopedic procedures like total knee, hip, and partial knee replacements. It combines CT-based 3D preoperative planning software with an intelligent robotic arm for real-time intraoperative guidance, enabling sub-millimeter accuracy in bone preparation and implant positioning. The system uses haptic feedback to assist surgeons in staying within planned boundaries, improving surgical precision and patient outcomes.
Pros
- Exceptional precision with robotic guidance and haptic feedback
- Comprehensive 3D planning tools backed by extensive clinical data
- Improved patient outcomes including faster recovery and higher satisfaction
Cons
- Extremely high initial and per-procedure costs
- Significant training required for optimal use
- Primarily limited to orthopedic joint surgeries
Best For
Orthopedic surgeons and high-volume hospitals performing joint replacement procedures where precision justifies the investment.
Pricing
Capital cost $1-2 million+ per system, plus $2,000-$4,000 per procedure in disposables and service contracts.
Medtronic StealthStation
enterpriseOptical and electromagnetic surgical navigation system enhancing accuracy in neurosurgery and ENT procedures.
Real-time optical and electromagnetic tracking with automatic image fusion for seamless navigation across surgical specialties
Medtronic StealthStation is a sophisticated surgical navigation system designed for precise, image-guided procedures in neurosurgery, spine surgery, ENT, and orthopedics. It integrates preoperative CT, MRI, and other imaging data with real-time intraoperative tracking to provide surgeons with 3D visualization and instrument guidance. The platform supports optical and electromagnetic tracking technologies, automatic registration, and augmented reality features to enhance accuracy and workflow efficiency during minimally invasive surgeries.
Pros
- Exceptional navigation accuracy with sub-millimeter precision
- Robust integration with multiple imaging modalities and Medtronic instruments
- Advanced workflow tools like automatic registration and AR overlays
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users
- High upfront and maintenance costs
- Requires compatible hardware and dedicated OR space
Best For
Experienced neurosurgeons and spine surgeons in large hospitals performing complex image-guided procedures.
Pricing
Enterprise-level pricing upon request; typically $500,000+ for system including hardware and software, plus service contracts.
Touch Surgery
specializedAugmented reality surgical simulator for training and rehearsal of over 200 procedures across specialties.
Interactive 3D touch-based simulations that replicate precise surgical maneuvers with step-by-step guidance
Touch Surgery is a mobile app providing interactive 3D simulations of over 200 surgical procedures, allowing medical students, residents, and surgeons to practice step-by-step operations virtually. It includes detailed anatomical models, voiceover instructions, quizzes, and performance analytics to enhance learning and retention. Primarily designed for preoperative training, it supports self-paced education across specialties like orthopedics, neurosurgery, and general surgery.
Pros
- Extensive library of realistic 3D simulations across numerous procedures
- Gamified learning with quizzes, scores, and progress tracking
- Free access to core content with high-quality educational value
Cons
- Lacks haptic feedback, limiting realism compared to physical simulators
- Device-dependent performance issues on older hardware
- Premium content requires in-app purchases, gating some advanced modules
Best For
Medical students and surgical residents seeking affordable, portable simulation-based training to prepare for real procedures.
Pricing
Free to download with basic procedures; premium subscriptions ($9.99/month or $99.99/year) or one-time purchases for full access to all modules.
Surgical Theater
specializedImmersive VR platform for patient-specific surgical planning, rehearsal, and family education.
Immersive VR surgical rehearsal using patient-specific 3D models for pre-op practice
Surgical Theater is an advanced surgical planning platform that converts patient-specific MRI and CT scans into immersive 3D anatomical models. Surgeons use VR headsets to rehearse procedures, explore complex anatomy from any angle, and simulate surgeries for better precision and confidence. The software integrates with navigation systems to guide real-time operations, primarily targeting neurosurgery, spine, and cranial procedures.
Pros
- High-fidelity patient-specific 3D models for precise planning
- VR-based surgical rehearsal reduces OR time and risks
- Seamless integration with surgical navigation systems
Cons
- Steep learning curve for non-tech-savvy users
- Requires VR hardware and high-end computing resources
- Limited to specialized surgeries like neuro and spine
Best For
Neurosurgeons and surgical teams in large hospitals handling complex cranial or spine cases who need advanced VR rehearsal tools.
Pricing
Enterprise custom pricing; typically subscription-based starting at $100,000+ annually per facility, with per-case options.
OsiriX MD
specializedFDA-cleared DICOM viewer with advanced 3D rendering for preoperative surgical planning and image analysis.
Sophisticated 3D/4D rendering engine with real-time interaction for complex anatomical models
OsiriX MD is a powerful DICOM workstation and medical imaging viewer tailored for radiology and surgical planning on macOS. It provides advanced 2D/3D/4D visualization, multi-planar reconstruction, volume rendering, and image fusion for modalities like CT, MRI, and PET. Surgeons use it primarily for pre-operative planning, 3D modeling, and image analysis to support procedures such as neurosurgery, orthopedics, and vascular surgery.
Pros
- Exceptional 3D volume rendering and multi-planar reconstruction for surgical planning
- Extensive plugin ecosystem for customization and advanced analysis
- High-performance handling of large datasets on Apple hardware
Cons
- Limited to macOS, restricting multi-platform use in surgical environments
- Steep learning curve for non-radiologists
- Lacks native integration with intra-operative navigation systems or robotics
Best For
Surgeons and surgical planners focused on detailed pre-operative imaging review and 3D reconstruction using Apple computers.
Pricing
One-time license starting at approximately €599 per user, with optional annual updates and plugins.
Conclusion
The top surgery software tools, including the standout Epic OpTime, Cerner SurgiNet, and Surgical Information Systems (SIS), demonstrate how technology can revolutionize surgical workflows—with Epic OpTime leading as the most comprehensive choice for hospital-based perioperative management. While Cerner SurgiNet excels in enterprise-wide OR efficiency and SIS specializes in ambulatory settings, all offer distinct value, highlighting the breadth of solutions available to healthcare institutions. Selecting the right tool depends on specific needs, but Epic OpTime shines as the top pick for its integrated, end-to-end approach.
Explore Epic OpTime to experience firsthand its ability to streamline scheduling, documentation, and workflow—empowering your team for better surgical outcomes.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison
