Electronic device maker HTC co-led a $9m series A round for US-based medical device developer Surgical Theater today with investment fund Shanghai Creation Investment Management.
Surgical Theater produces virtual reality imaging tools for use in surgery, allowing surgeons to more efficiently plan cranial procedures to treat disorders such as tumours or cerebrovascular disorders. It is also compatible with HTC’s Vive VR headset.
Cher Wang, chief executive of HTC, said: “Virtual reality will forever transform the way we experience the world around us, and HTC Vive’s unique 360 room-scale solution and tracking technology is enabling innovative applications of VR which will enrich every aspect of our lives.
“Our collaboration with Surgical Theater is an exciting opportunity to pioneer the medical use of VR, with a remarkable application in the highly specialised field of neurosurgery that enhances patient care (and) could help save lives.”
The funding follows a $580,000 crowdfunding campaign by Surgical Theater on Israel-based platform OurCrowd in 2013.