Medical imaging technology continues to evolve, with new solutions emerging to improve surgical accuracy and efficiency. Amsterdam-based Surgical Reality has received financial backing from LUMO Labs and Graduate Entrepreneur to further develop its imaging platform. The company’s software rapidly converts pulmonary CT scans into fully labeled 3D lung models, which could assist surgeons in planning procedures with greater precision. This funding is expected to support regulatory approvals, product enhancements, and broader commercialization efforts.
Surgical Reality previously introduced its 3D visualization platform to the medical field, gaining traction in the Netherlands, Germany, and the United States. Over 350 surgeries have already utilized the technology, with research from Erasmus MC suggesting that it enhances surgical planning in more than half of cases compared to traditional CT scans. Unlike conventional methods requiring surgeons to mentally reconstruct anatomical structures, this system provides a direct, interactive 3D model tailored to individual patients.
How Will the Funding Be Used?
The investment will help Surgical Reality accelerate its regulatory approval process in Europe, expand commercial operations, and enhance its software capabilities. The company aims to integrate new features benefiting surgeons, operating room personnel, and patients alike. CEO Chris Hordijk expressed appreciation for the strategic backing, emphasizing the expertise that both investors bring to the company.
“At Surgical Reality we’re proud and delighted to be backed by leading Dutch investors Graduate Entrepreneur and LUMO Labs,” said Hordijk.
LUMO Labs and Graduate Entrepreneur offer extensive support beyond financial contributions. Graduate Entrepreneur provides access to an academic healthcare network, while LUMO Labs brings experience in scaling health-tech startups and facilitating commercialization.
What Sets Surgical Reality’s Technology Apart?
Conventional surgical imaging relies on 2D CT scans, requiring surgeons to mentally reconstruct a three-dimensional view of the patient’s anatomy. This approach can be challenging due to anatomical variations. Surgical Reality’s solution generates patient-specific 3D models within minutes, allowing surgeons to manipulate and explore the tissue structure in real-time.
The company collaborated with medical professionals and specialists in computer vision, AI, and 3D modeling to create this system. Its technology is designed to optimize surgical planning, leading to more accurate procedures and potentially reducing complications. The company is actively working toward European medical device certification to ensure compliance with safety and security standards.
LUMO Labs, a Netherlands-based investor, focuses on impact-driven technology startups. Through its LUMO Fund II, it supports companies working in AI, blockchain, robotics, and AR/VR. The firm emphasizes transparency, data security, and sustainability in its investments.
“We are impressed with Surgical Reality’s systematic surgeon- and patient-centred development processes that have resulted in a digital medical device that addresses a clear unmet clinical need,” said Sven Bakkes, founding partner at LUMO Labs.
Experts highlight the potential for 3D visualization to not only improve surgical outcomes but also enhance medical training. By providing detailed anatomical models, the technology may help operating room staff and medical students better understand complex procedures before performing them in real settings.
As 3D surgical imaging gains wider adoption, its role in improving patient care and reducing surgical complications could become more significant. With financial and strategic support from investors, Surgical Reality is positioned to further develop its technology while expanding its market presence. The company’s next steps involve securing necessary regulatory approvals, increasing clinical adoption, and refining product features to meet evolving medical needs.
