An Essex-based startup, Scalpel AI, has secured £3.8m in funding to advance surgical technology, highlighting the importance of innovation in healthcare.
- Founded by two doctors, Scalpel AI addresses errors in surgical tool management through advanced AI and computer vision.
- Their technology creates digital replicas of medical equipment, analysed for efficiency in operating theatres.
- This funding round, led by Mercia Ventures, enables Scalpel AI to extend its reach globally, aiming for industry standard recognition.
- Scalpel AI has previously garnered support from Innovate UK, reflecting strong confidence in their pioneering solutions.
Scalpel AI, a promising startup from Essex, has successfully raised £3.8m to further its efforts in revolutionising surgical tool management using artificial intelligence and computer vision. This significant financial boost underscores the growing emphasis on technological advancements within the healthcare sector.
Established in 2017 by two insightful doctors who recognised the critical errors stemming from mismanaged surgical tools, Scalpel AI has developed an innovative approach to identifying and tracking the performance of surgical instruments. According to Dr Yeshwanth Pulijala, co-founder and CEO, the smooth operation of surgeries relies heavily on what happens behind the scenes as much as in the operating theatre. He expressed confidence in making surgeries safer and progressing towards personalised healthcare, which he considers the future of the industry.
The company’s cutting-edge solution involves generating digital twins of medical equipment, enabling precise examination using computer vision. This technology not only ensures the correct equipment is available in surgical trays but also addresses discrepancies quickly. Dr Shahnawaz Ahmed, co-founder and CTO, emphasised the importance of overcoming initial challenges in manual settings by closely collaborating with users to develop tailored solutions. Their proprietary AI algorithms have been shown to eliminate supply chain errors and significantly reduce handling time.
The strategic funding round was spearheaded by Mercia Ventures, with participation from Tensor Ventures, marking a pivotal step for Scalpel AI’s international expansion. Lee Lindley of Mercia Ventures noted the shift from traditional methods involving barcodes and RFID tags towards more sophisticated platforms like Scalpel AI’s, which promise to transform surgical tray management. This investment not only provides Scalpel AI with financial resources but also strategic backing to achieve global industry recognition.
Scalpel AI has also received grant funding from Innovate UK, a government-supported entity, which speaks volumes about the startup’s innovative capabilities and the broader confidence in its potential impact on healthcare delivery.
Scalpel AI’s advancements signify promising transformations in healthcare, setting the stage for safer, more efficient surgical procedures worldwide.
