B Braun has announced the full acquisition of True Digital Surgery (TDS), a company based in Goleta, USA that specialises in digital robotic-assisted 3D surgical microscopy. A press release states that this acquisition—for which the purchase price has not been disclosed—highlights B Braun’s commitment to investing in the future of digital microsurgery and to expanding its market share in this growing segment.
Before the acquisition, B Braun held a minority stake in TDS. The decision to fully acquire TDS allows B Braun’s surgical division, Aesculap, to secure the “valuable expertise” of the TDS team, ensuring the continuous technological advancement of Aesculap Aeos—one of B Braun’s core medical products used in neurosurgery, spinal surgery, and ear, nose and throat (ENT) surgery.
“This strategic move enables us to integrate the cutting-edge technology and innovative capabilities of TDS,” said Jens von Lackum, a member of the B Braun executive board who is responsible for Aesculap. “By combining the best of both worlds, we can continue to provide our customers with best-in-class systems in robotic-assisted 3D microsurgery. We are excited about the potential this acquisition brings and the opportunities to further develop our digital surgical solutions.”
According to B Braun, the high-end microsurgery market in neuro, spine and ENT is currently undergoing a “significant transformation”, shifting from traditional analogue microscopes to digital exoscopes, which provide “excellent visualisation” at extreme angles and allow surgeons to operate while looking at 3D monitors instead of through an eyepiece. These technologies also enable surgeons to stand upright during surgery, reducing physical strain.
“This merger with such a highly respected healthcare organisation as B Braun represents an exciting new milestone for TDS, and is a natural extension of the successful partnership we’ve enjoyed for several years,” commented Aidan Foley, former TDS chief executive officer (CEO) and chairman of the board. “The combination of our groundbreaking technologies with B Braun’s access to the global healthcare market represents an incomparable opportunity for both companies to further improve the lives of patients and medical professionals the world over.”
B Braun plans for TDS to remain as a technology hub at its location in Goleta. The company’s recent release also notes that the acquisition will allow TDS and its employees to focus on their core competencies, innovating and integrating advanced technologies.
