B. Braun Acquires True Digital Surgery, Advancing Digital Microscopy in Surgery

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 neuro, spine, and ear, nose, and throat procedures.

Transformation of Surgical Microscopy

The acquisition comes at a time when the surgical microscopy field is undergoing a significant transformation. Traditional analog microscopes are being replaced by digital exoscopes, which offer several advantages:

• Enhanced visualization at extreme angles
• Improved ergonomics for surgeons
• 3D monitor viewing instead of eyepiece use

These advancements address longstanding ergonomic issues in surgery. A 2020 study reported that 74% of surveyed neurosurgeons had experienced work-related musculoskeletal disorders, highlighting the importance of improved surgical tools and techniques.

TDS Technology and Integration

TDS, originally founded as TrueVision Systems in 2003, has developed a sophisticated system that includes a camera mounted on a robotic arm. This technology sends high-quality images to a 3D surgical display, allowing surgeons to operate with improved posture and potentially reducing strain on the neck and back.

B. Braun's surgical division, Aesculap, already incorporates TDS technology in its products. The acquisition is expected to ensure the continued advancement of the Aesculap Aeos robotic digital microscope. B. Braun plans to maintain TDS as a technology hub at its existing site in California, focusing on innovation and integration of advanced technologies.

Market Landscape and Competition

The surgical exoscope market is competitive, with several major players offering similar technologies:

• Carl Zeiss Meditec
• Leica Microsystems
• Olympus

A recent survey of neurosurgeons and orthopedic surgeons found that Olympus' Orbeye and Meditec's Zeiss Kinevo 900 were the two most widely used exoscopes. While most surveyed surgeons reported that exoscope image quality is at least as good as traditional operating microscopes, the high cost of these devices—up to $1.5 million—remains a significant limitation to widespread adoption.

The acquisition of TDS by B. Braun represents a significant development in the ongoing digital transformation of surgical practices, promising improved outcomes for both surgeons and patients.