AR surgical device developed by SURGAR gains €11 million funding
French startup SURGAR, which develops AR solutions for minimally invasive surgery, has raised €11 million in a successful funding round. The technology develops an augmented reality model of the patient using data from magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) or computed tomography (CT) scans, which is then fused with a real-life laparoscopic image captured during the operation. Examining internal organ features including tumours, arteries, and ducts becomes easier, faster, and safer for surgeons using this technology.
The goal of the technique is to cut surgical problems in half while doubling the precision. This means fewer complications, less intrusive surgery, and a decreased likelihood of cancer returning for patients. Healthcare providers may save a substantial amount of money via shorter hospital stays and more efficient surgeries.
The Pascal Institute’s EnCoV team worked alongside Clermont-Ferrand University Hospital for 12 years before producing this discovery. Université Clermont-Auvergne, CNRS, and INP Clermont-Auvergne are all parts of the Pascal Institute. The groundbreaking integration of AI, computer vision, and clinical expertise that SURGAR is known for was first proposed by Professors Bourdel, Bartoli, Canis, and Leroy, who are also co-founders of the firm.
Nicolas Bourdel, creator and CEO of SURGAR, emphasised the importance of the human element and the project’s ongoing relationship. He emphasised that the company’s ability to meet a key demand for surgeons ultimately benefits patients. The CE certification of SURGAR’s initial solution is a major accomplishment. With these funds, the first ever augmented reality system for abdominal surgery may be developed.
Jacques Gardette, creator of Biocorp, was one of many business angels who participated in the XAnge-managed fundraising round. Other participants were Elaia Partners, Bpifrance’s Digital Venture fund, Elakoff Humanis’ corporate fund, and Mutuelles Impact. The firm has ongoing backing from previous investors including Crédit Agricole Capital Innovation and UI Investissement.
According to XAnge partner Nadja Bresous, SURGAR’s software exemplifies how AI has the potential to enhance healthcare. This method improves efficiency, reduces the likelihood of reoperations, and sets the stage for successful laparoscopic surgery.
Céline Passedouet, Investment Director at Elaia, has said that the strategic investment is a crucial step towards transforming surgery in France.
This funding will allow SURGAR to create U-SURGAR, a program that will help women who suffer from fibroids and endometriosis (adenomyosis) within the uterus. The business also plans to complete and sell L-SURGAR, a treatment for liver cancer, and K-SURGAR, a treatment for kidney cancer. Numerous hospitals throughout the world, including those in France, have already inked partnerships to create endometriosis-specific AI apps and others.
