C-section surgeries, the most commonly performed major surgical procedures worldwide, account for over 30 million operations annually. While these surgeries are essential for safe deliveries in many cases, they are not without risks. Complications such as wound trauma, excessive bleeding, and infections pose significant challenges to maternal health. Traditional surgical tools often fail to meet the unique needs of C-sections, leading to suboptimal outcomes for mothers and newborns.

Addressing these critical gaps in maternal healthcare is Irish medtech startup Nua Surgical, which is redefining how C-sections are performed. Their innovative approach is centered around improving both safety and efficiency during these procedures.

The Birth of an Idea: How Nua Surgical Began

Nua Surgical was established in 2019 by Barry McCann, Marie-Therese Maher, and Padraig Maher as a spin-out from the BioInnovate Ireland programme at the University of Galway. Recognizing a significant unmet need in maternal healthcare, the founders embarked on a mission to design cutting-edge solutions tailored to C-section procedures. Their efforts culminated in the development of SteriCISION, a revolutionary device aimed at transforming the surgical landscape for C-sections.

The SteriCISION C-Section Retractor was created after extensive research into the unique challenges faced by obstetric surgeons. The result is a device that prioritizes safety, usability, and patient outcomes.

What Is SteriCISION and How Does It Work?

SteriCISION is a first-of-its-kind surgical retractor designed specifically for C-section surgeries. Unlike traditional generic retractors, SteriCISION offers fast, adjustable, and secure retraction tailored to the intricate demands of Caesarean deliveries. Key features include:

• Enhanced Visualization and Access: SteriCISION improves visibility of the uterus, enabling precise tissue repair, efficient bleeding management, and safer delivery.
• Infection Risk Minimization: As a single-use sterile device, it reduces the likelihood of postoperative infections.
• Ergonomic Design: The device is intuitive and easy to handle, ensuring seamless integration into surgical workflows.
• Streamlined Surgical Efficiency: By addressing inefficiencies inherent in traditional tools, SteriCISION optimizes surgical processes, ultimately benefiting mothers, babies, and healthcare providers.

The device’s impact extends beyond the operating room. By reducing complications and healthcare costs, SteriCISION is poised to set new standards in maternal health, improving outcomes on a global scale.

Advancing Maternal Healthcare Innovation

As Nua Surgical moves closer to commercializing SteriCISION, the company is on a trajectory to revolutionize maternal healthcare. By combining ergonomic design, single-use functionality, and a commitment to improving surgical outcomes, SteriCISION has the potential to significantly enhance the standard of care in C-section procedures worldwide.

Barry McCann, CEO of Nua Surgical, reflected on the significance of the company’s recent achievements: “Securing this Series A financing is a crucial milestone for Nua Surgical. It not only provides the capital needed to advance our product but also brings on board a group of experienced investors who share our vision for transforming maternal health. We are eager to leverage their expertise as we move towards commercializing SteriCISION.”

Anne Portwich, Partner at EQT Life Sciences, echoed this sentiment: “Nua Surgical’s SteriCISION C-Section Retractor has the potential to significantly enhance outcomes for mothers undergoing C-section procedures. We are excited to support the company’s journey toward market entry. This innovative device shows promise in potentially improving the quality of care and reducing healthcare costs, making it a perfect fit for our EQT Health Economics strategy.”

A Vision for the Future

The journey ahead for Nua Surgical involves rigorous steps to achieve global impact. The company is focused on expanding its team, establishing manufacturing capabilities in Ireland, and meeting the regulatory requirements for FDA clearance. By prioritizing these strategic goals, Nua Surgical is well-positioned to bring SteriCISION to hospitals and clinics worldwide, delivering safer and more effective C-section solutions.

Funding Details

Nua Surgical recently closed a €6.5 million Series A funding round to support its mission. The round was led by EQT Life Sciences under its EQT Health Economics strategy and included participation from notable investors such as Texas Medical Center Venture Fund, Kidron Capital, and existing supporters like Enterprise Ireland. The funding also attracted seasoned business leaders from Ireland and the U.S.

This investment will be pivotal in scaling Nua Surgical’s operations, advancing product development, and driving early commercialization efforts. Notably, EQT’s Anne Portwich and Kidron Capital’s Anula Jayasuriya have joined the company’s board, underscoring their commitment to fostering innovative leadership in maternal healthcare.

With these resources and an unwavering dedication to improving maternal health, Nua Surgical is set to redefine how C-sections are performed, ensuring safer and more efficient outcomes for mothers and babies around the world.