Quick Overview
- 1#1: Epic OpTime - Comprehensive enterprise perioperative solution for surgical scheduling, intraoperative documentation, and postoperative management within the Epic EHR ecosystem.
- 2#2: Cerner SurgiNet - Integrated surgical workflow management system that handles scheduling, case management, and perioperative analytics in Cerner's health IT platform.
- 3#3: Surgical Information Systems (SIS) - Dedicated perioperative software suite optimizing OR scheduling, supply chain management, and surgical analytics for hospitals.
- 4#4: Optum Perioperative (Picis) - High-acuity perioperative care software for managing complex surgical cases, anesthesia, and recovery workflows.
- 5#5: VersaSuite Perioperative - Modular perioperative solution for surgical scheduling, inventory tracking, and compliance reporting in ambulatory surgery centers.
- 6#6: Touch Surgery Enterprise - Interactive surgical simulation and training platform using AR/VR for procedure rehearsal and skill assessment.
- 7#7: Brainlab - Advanced surgical navigation and digital planning software suite for precision guidance in neurosurgery and orthopedics.
- 8#8: Surgical Theater - Immersive VR platform for patient-specific surgical rehearsal and planning using real-time imaging data.
- 9#9: Synaptive Medical Modus - Integrated neuro-surgical planning workstation with imaging, navigation, and robotic microscopy support.
- 10#10: Materialise Mimics - Medical image processing software for creating 3D models from CT/MRI scans to aid surgical planning and 3D printing.
Tools were ranked based on depth of functionality, user adoption metrics, technological innovation, and alignment with clinical and operational needs, ensuring a balance of quality, ease of use, and value across diverse healthcare settings.
Comparison Table
Surgical software is essential for optimizing operating room workflows, fostering collaboration, and improving care delivery. This comparison table examines key tools, including Epic OpTime, Cerner SurgiNet, Surgical Information Systems (SIS), Optum Perioperative (Picis), VersaSuite Perioperative, and more, to help users evaluate features, integration capabilities, and operational fit.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Epic OpTime Comprehensive enterprise perioperative solution for surgical scheduling, intraoperative documentation, and postoperative management within the Epic EHR ecosystem. | enterprise | 9.4/10 | 9.8/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 2 | Cerner SurgiNet Integrated surgical workflow management system that handles scheduling, case management, and perioperative analytics in Cerner's health IT platform. | enterprise | 8.8/10 | 9.4/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 3 | Surgical Information Systems (SIS) Dedicated perioperative software suite optimizing OR scheduling, supply chain management, and surgical analytics for hospitals. | enterprise | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 4 | Optum Perioperative (Picis) High-acuity perioperative care software for managing complex surgical cases, anesthesia, and recovery workflows. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.2/10 | 7.6/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 5 | VersaSuite Perioperative Modular perioperative solution for surgical scheduling, inventory tracking, and compliance reporting in ambulatory surgery centers. | enterprise | 8.4/10 | 9.0/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.2/10 |
| 6 | Touch Surgery Enterprise Interactive surgical simulation and training platform using AR/VR for procedure rehearsal and skill assessment. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.2/10 | 8.8/10 | 8.3/10 |
| 7 | Brainlab Advanced surgical navigation and digital planning software suite for precision guidance in neurosurgery and orthopedics. | specialized | 8.6/10 | 9.3/10 | 7.7/10 | 8.1/10 |
| 8 | Surgical Theater Immersive VR platform for patient-specific surgical rehearsal and planning using real-time imaging data. | specialized | 8.7/10 | 9.5/10 | 7.5/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 9 | Synaptive Medical Modus Integrated neuro-surgical planning workstation with imaging, navigation, and robotic microscopy support. | specialized | 8.4/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.7/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 10 | Materialise Mimics Medical image processing software for creating 3D models from CT/MRI scans to aid surgical planning and 3D printing. | specialized | 8.5/10 | 9.5/10 | 7.0/10 | 8.0/10 |
Comprehensive enterprise perioperative solution for surgical scheduling, intraoperative documentation, and postoperative management within the Epic EHR ecosystem.
Integrated surgical workflow management system that handles scheduling, case management, and perioperative analytics in Cerner's health IT platform.
Dedicated perioperative software suite optimizing OR scheduling, supply chain management, and surgical analytics for hospitals.
High-acuity perioperative care software for managing complex surgical cases, anesthesia, and recovery workflows.
Modular perioperative solution for surgical scheduling, inventory tracking, and compliance reporting in ambulatory surgery centers.
Interactive surgical simulation and training platform using AR/VR for procedure rehearsal and skill assessment.
Advanced surgical navigation and digital planning software suite for precision guidance in neurosurgery and orthopedics.
Immersive VR platform for patient-specific surgical rehearsal and planning using real-time imaging data.
Integrated neuro-surgical planning workstation with imaging, navigation, and robotic microscopy support.
Medical image processing software for creating 3D models from CT/MRI scans to aid surgical planning and 3D printing.
Epic OpTime
enterpriseComprehensive enterprise perioperative solution for surgical scheduling, intraoperative documentation, and postoperative management within the Epic EHR ecosystem.
Intraoperative module with structured charting, voice-enabled documentation, and automated handoffs for precise, real-time surgical records
Epic OpTime is a comprehensive perioperative software module within the Epic EHR platform, designed to manage the entire surgical workflow from preoperative planning and scheduling to intraoperative documentation and postoperative care. It optimizes operating room efficiency through advanced scheduling, inventory management, case tracking, and compliance tools. OpTime ensures seamless data flow across Epic's ecosystem, supporting multidisciplinary teams in delivering high-quality surgical care.
Pros
- Unmatched integration with Epic's full EHR suite for unified patient data
- Robust OR scheduling, inventory, and preference card management
- Advanced analytics, safety checklists, and real-time intraoperative documentation
Cons
- Steep learning curve and extensive training required
- High implementation costs and long deployment timelines
- Limited flexibility outside the Epic ecosystem, leading to vendor lock-in
Best For
Large hospitals and academic medical centers with high-volume surgical programs that utilize or plan to adopt the full Epic EHR platform.
Pricing
Enterprise licensing with custom pricing; upfront implementation often exceeds $1M+ for large systems, plus annual subscriptions based on beds/users (~$500K-$5M/year).
Cerner SurgiNet
enterpriseIntegrated surgical workflow management system that handles scheduling, case management, and perioperative analytics in Cerner's health IT platform.
Seamless bidirectional integration with Cerner Millennium EHR for real-time perioperative data synchronization
Cerner SurgiNet is a comprehensive perioperative software platform that streamlines surgical workflows across preoperative planning, intraoperative management, and postoperative care. It offers robust tools for OR scheduling, case documentation, inventory tracking, and compliance reporting, all integrated seamlessly with Cerner's Millennium EHR for a unified patient record. Designed for high-volume surgical environments, it enhances efficiency through real-time analytics and predictive scheduling to optimize resource utilization.
Pros
- Deep integration with Cerner EHR for seamless data flow and reduced errors
- Advanced OR scheduling and block time management with predictive analytics
- Comprehensive inventory and supply chain tools tailored for surgical needs
Cons
- Steep learning curve and complex interface requiring extensive training
- High implementation and customization costs for enterprise deployments
- Limited flexibility for smaller facilities without Cerner ecosystem
Best For
Large hospital systems and surgical centers integrated with Cerner EHR seeking scalable, end-to-end perioperative management.
Pricing
Enterprise custom pricing with high upfront implementation fees (often $1M+) and annual subscriptions based on beds/users, starting at $500K/year for mid-sized facilities.
Surgical Information Systems (SIS)
enterpriseDedicated perioperative software suite optimizing OR scheduling, supply chain management, and surgical analytics for hospitals.
Perioperative Analytics platform delivering real-time benchmarking and cost insights across surgical cases
Surgical Information Systems (SIS) offers a comprehensive perioperative software suite tailored for hospitals and ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs), managing everything from surgical scheduling and inventory control to clinical documentation and revenue cycle management. Its platform integrates OR workflows, anesthesia records, and supply chain optimization to enhance efficiency and compliance. SIS stands out with robust analytics tools that provide actionable insights into surgical performance and costs.
Pros
- Comprehensive perioperative suite covering scheduling, inventory, and analytics
- Strong integration with EHRs and compliance features like HIPAA
- Advanced analytics for cost control and performance benchmarking
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users
- Custom pricing can be expensive for smaller facilities
- Interface feels dated compared to modern cloud-native solutions
Best For
Large hospitals and ASCs needing an enterprise-grade, all-in-one surgical management system with deep analytics.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing; typically subscription-based starting at $50,000+ annually depending on modules and facility size—contact for quote.
Optum Perioperative (Picis)
enterpriseHigh-acuity perioperative care software for managing complex surgical cases, anesthesia, and recovery workflows.
High-acuity care model with real-time perioperative decision support for trauma and critical surgical environments
Optum Perioperative (Picis) is a comprehensive perioperative information management system (PIMS) tailored for hospitals, ambulatory surgery centers, and high-acuity environments. It provides end-to-end support for surgical workflows, including OR scheduling, anesthesia documentation, clinical charting, inventory management, and perioperative analytics. The platform emphasizes real-time data visibility, compliance with regulatory standards, and integration with enterprise EHR systems to optimize surgical throughput and resource utilization.
Pros
- Comprehensive perioperative suite with modules for scheduling, documentation, and analytics
- Strong integration capabilities with EHRs like Epic and Cerner
- Advanced real-time decision support for high-volume, complex cases
Cons
- Steep learning curve and lengthy implementation process
- High enterprise-level pricing not ideal for small facilities
- Customization can be resource-intensive
Best For
Large hospitals and health systems with high-acuity surgical programs needing robust, scalable perioperative management.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing upon request; typically subscription-based starting at $100K+ annually depending on modules and facility size.
VersaSuite Perioperative
enterpriseModular perioperative solution for surgical scheduling, inventory tracking, and compliance reporting in ambulatory surgery centers.
Integrated Perioperative Visibility Manager for real-time OR block optimization and supply chain automation
VersaSuite Perioperative is a robust module within the VersaSuite EHR ecosystem, designed to manage end-to-end surgical workflows including scheduling, preoperative planning, intraoperative documentation, and postoperative follow-up. It integrates seamlessly with practice management and revenue cycle tools to ensure compliance, optimize OR utilization, and track inventory in real-time. This solution is particularly suited for facilities aiming to unify perioperative data with broader clinical operations.
Pros
- Seamless integration with full EHR and practice management suite
- Advanced OR scheduling and inventory management with real-time visibility
- Customizable workflows and robust compliance reporting tools
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to extensive customization options
- Implementation can be lengthy for complex environments
- Pricing is quote-based with less transparency for smaller practices
Best For
Mid-sized hospitals and ambulatory surgery centers seeking integrated perioperative solutions within a comprehensive EHR platform.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically $300-$600 per provider/month including perioperative modules, with additional fees for implementation and customizations.
Touch Surgery Enterprise
specializedInteractive surgical simulation and training platform using AR/VR for procedure rehearsal and skill assessment.
Interactive 3D simulations with haptic feedback and step-by-step expert guidance for realistic procedure rehearsal
Touch Surgery Enterprise is a leading surgical simulation and training platform that delivers interactive 3D simulations for over 200 procedures across specialties like orthopedics, neurosurgery, and plastics. It enables surgeons, residents, and teams to practice step-by-step techniques on mobile, web, or VR devices with real-time feedback and performance analytics. Tailored for institutions, it supports curriculum integration, competency tracking, and remote learning to enhance surgical skills safely outside the OR.
Pros
- High-fidelity 3D simulations validated by expert surgeons
- Robust analytics and progress tracking for teams
- Multi-device accessibility including VR for immersive training
Cons
- Primarily focused on simulation/training, not intra-operative tools
- Hardware requirements for advanced VR features add costs
- Content library strong but not exhaustive for rare procedures
Best For
Surgical residency programs, hospitals, and medical schools seeking scalable, evidence-based training simulations.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing via subscription (typically $10K+ annually per institution, based on users and features).
Brainlab
specializedAdvanced surgical navigation and digital planning software suite for precision guidance in neurosurgery and orthopedics.
AI-driven automatic trajectory planning and fiber tracking in Elements software for personalized, collision-free surgical paths
Brainlab provides advanced surgical navigation, planning, and imaging software solutions tailored for neurosurgery, orthopedics, spine, ENT, and cranial procedures. Their Elements platform offers AI-driven preoperative planning, trajectory calculation, and segmentation, while Kick navigation integrates real-time intraoperative guidance with mixed reality visualization. The suite supports seamless workflow from imaging to surgery, enhancing precision and efficiency in complex interventions.
Pros
- Exceptional precision in navigation and AI-powered planning tools
- Broad module library for various surgical specialties
- Strong integration with imaging hardware like Loop-X and hospital PACS systems
Cons
- High implementation and maintenance costs
- Steep learning curve requiring extensive training
- Heavy reliance on proprietary hardware for full functionality
Best For
Large hospitals and specialized surgical teams handling high-volume complex neurosurgical, orthopedic, and spine procedures demanding sub-millimeter accuracy.
Pricing
Enterprise-level custom pricing; typically includes hardware purchase ($500K+ for systems like Loop-X) plus annual software licenses starting at $100K-$500K based on modules and usage.
Surgical Theater
specializedImmersive VR platform for patient-specific surgical rehearsal and planning using real-time imaging data.
VR-based surgical rehearsal theater for patient-specific procedure simulation
Surgical Theater provides an advanced Surgical Navigation Advanced Platform (SNAP) that converts 2D CT and MRI scans into immersive 3D patient-specific models for surgical planning. Surgeons can perform virtual rehearsals in VR, collaborate remotely, and utilize AR-guided navigation during procedures to enhance precision. It's primarily tailored for neurosurgery and complex cranial cases, aiming to reduce operative time and improve outcomes.
Pros
- Exceptional 3D visualization and VR rehearsal capabilities for precise pre-surgical planning
- Real-time AR navigation integration during surgery
- Strong evidence from clinical studies showing reduced procedure times and complications
Cons
- High cost and enterprise-level pricing limits accessibility for smaller practices
- Requires specialized hardware like VR headsets and compatible OR setups
- Steep learning curve and integration challenges with existing hospital systems
Best For
Neurosurgical teams in high-volume hospitals performing complex brain and spine procedures that benefit from immersive planning and navigation.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing via quote, typically $100K+ annually per site including hardware and support.
Synaptive Medical Modus
specializedIntegrated neuro-surgical planning workstation with imaging, navigation, and robotic microscopy support.
Modus AR overlay that projects navigation data directly into the surgical microscope view for hands-free, real-time guidance
Synaptive Medical's Modus is an advanced surgical software platform tailored for neurosurgery, integrating preoperative planning, intraoperative navigation, and high-fidelity visualization. It enables surgeons to create detailed 3D models from MRI/CT scans, overlay navigation data in augmented reality (AR), and streamline workflows from planning to execution. Modus works with compatible workstations and microscopes to provide real-time guidance, reducing operative time and enhancing precision in complex brain and spine procedures.
Pros
- Seamless integration of planning, navigation, and AR visualization
- High-resolution 3D imaging and real-time intraoperative guidance
- Proven to reduce surgery times and improve outcomes in neurosurgery
Cons
- Primarily limited to neurosurgical applications
- Steep learning curve and hardware dependencies
- High enterprise-level costs with custom implementation
Best For
Neurosurgical teams in specialized hospitals needing integrated navigation and AR for complex brain/spine procedures.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing; typically involves substantial upfront costs for software licenses, workstations, and integration (contact for quotes).
Materialise Mimics
specializedMedical image processing software for creating 3D models from CT/MRI scans to aid surgical planning and 3D printing.
Advanced AI-assisted segmentation that accurately handles complex, noisy anatomies in under 10 minutes per case
Materialise Mimics is a leading medical image processing software that converts 2D CT and MRI scans into accurate 3D anatomical models for surgical planning. It excels in segmentation, morphing, and preparation of models for 3D-printed surgical guides, implants, and patient-specific instruments. Primarily used in orthopedics, cranio-maxillofacial, and cardiovascular surgery, it integrates seamlessly with downstream workflows like 3D printing and simulation.
Pros
- Exceptionally precise segmentation and 3D modeling from medical images
- Robust validation and quality control tools for clinical accuracy
- Strong integration with 3D printing and surgical planning ecosystems
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring specialized training
- High computational resource demands
- Premium pricing limits accessibility for smaller practices
Best For
Experienced biomedical engineers and surgeons in high-volume hospitals or medical device firms focused on patient-specific surgical planning.
Pricing
Enterprise licensing starts at approximately $10,000-$20,000 per year per seat, with custom quotes for multi-user or institutional deployments.
Conclusion
These top surgical software solutions represent the pinnacle of perioperative innovation, with Epic OpTime leading as the clear choice, integrating scheduling, documentation, and management into a unified Epic EHR ecosystem. Cerner SurgiNet and Surgical Information Systems (SIS) follow as standout alternatives, offering tailored strengths—Cerner in deep platform integration and SIS in optimizing OR workflows and supply chain management—for diverse institutional needs.
Discover the power of end-to-end perioperative management: explore Epic OpTime to streamline every step of your surgical process, from start to finish.
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison