B. Braun Acquires True Digital Surgery, Advancing Surgical Microscopy Technology

B. Braun, a leading medical technology company, has announced the acquisition of True Digital Surgery (TDS), a specialist in digital, robotic-assisted 3D surgical microscopy. This strategic move aims to strengthen B. Braun's position in the rapidly evolving high-end microsurgery market, particularly in neurosurgery, spine, and ear, nose, and throat procedures.

Transformation of Surgical Microscopy

The acquisition reflects a significant shift in the microsurgery landscape, as physicians increasingly transition from traditional analog microscopes to digital exoscopes. These camera-based imaging systems offer several advantages over conventional microscopes:

• Enhanced visualization at extreme angles
• Ability to operate while viewing 3D monitors instead of through eyepieces
• Improved ergonomics, potentially reducing strain on surgeons' necks and backs

Dr. Jens von Lackum, member of the B. Braun Management Board, emphasized the importance of this transition: "The high-end microsurgery market is undergoing a significant transformation. By acquiring TDS, we ensure the continued advancement of our Aesculap Aeos robotic digital microscope and solidify our position in this evolving field."

Addressing Ergonomic Challenges in Surgery

The move towards digital exoscopes is partly driven by the need to address ergonomic issues faced by surgeons. Recent studies highlight the prevalence of work-related musculoskeletal disorders among medical professionals:

• 74% of surveyed neurosurgeons reported experiencing work-related musculoskeletal disorders
• 12% of surgeons with such disorders required a leave of absence, practice restriction, or early retirement

TDS's technology, which includes a camera on a robotic arm connected to a 3D surgical display, aims to mitigate these ergonomic challenges and potentially extend surgeons' careers.

Market Landscape and Competition

While B. Braun strengthens its position with this acquisition, the surgical exoscope market remains competitive. Other major players include:

• Carl Zeiss Meditec
• Leica Microsystems
• Olympus

A recent survey of neurosurgeons and orthopedic surgeons identified Olympus' Orbeye and Zeiss Kinevo 900 as the two most widely used exoscopes. The survey also revealed that most surgeons found exoscope image quality to be at least as good as that of operating microscopes, with nearly half reporting reduced fatigue during procedures.

However, the high cost of these devices, ranging up to $1.5 million, remains a significant barrier to widespread adoption.

As the medical technology landscape continues to evolve, B. Braun's acquisition of True Digital Surgery positions the company to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of surgical microscopy and addressing the ergonomic challenges faced by surgeons worldwide.