Invuity Launches Advanced Visualization System for Spinal Surgeries

Each year, companies attending the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) Annual Meeting use the event to launch innovative new products. One such invention came from Invuity Inc., an 8-year-old developer of surgical visualization technology.

The San Francisco, Calif.-based company debuted its illuminated Eigr Taylor Retractor System at the event, which is running through Friday, Feb. 10, at the Moscone Center in the Golden Gate City. Invuity executives demonstrated the Taylor retractor system for attendees at its booth, touting the device’s access and visualization capabilities as well as its ability to improve outcomes for the estimated 600,000 spinal procedures performed annually in the United States.

The Eigr Taylor Retractor System, according to Invuity, is designed to enhance visualization and tissue retraction during spinal surgery, including posterior lumbar discectomy and decompression procedures. Invuity’s system integrates the company’s proprietary Eigr illumination technology into optimized Taylor retractors, making the anatomy appear brighter and sharper while remaining thermally cool. The system includes six retractors in multiple sizes for different patient anatomies.

“I have noted a dramatic improvement in operative field visibility with Eigr technology,” said James Bruffey, M.D., an orthopedic surgeon in La Jolla, Calif. “I am able to see much better and with more definition, even in deeper incisions. Perhaps most importantly, this technology allows me and my assistant to see clearly without the need for a headlight, which makes me more efficient and improves safety.”
Invuity’s Eigr technology utilizes unique optical structures to control light output to a targeted operative space. By directing light from multiple angles and efficiently managing light across a broad output surface, Eigr virtually eliminates shadows, back reflection, glare and thermal effects such as overheating, company executives said. Invuity’s Taylor retractors also are ergonomically designed to give surgeons greater comfort and maneuverability.

“In the past few months, Invuity has launched several key surgical devices incorporating our Eigr technology that provide critical value to surgeons by enhancing intra-operative visualization, particularly within less invasive procedures,” noted Philip Sawyer, Invuity’s CEO.

Last year, Invuity closed $17.6 million in Series C funding designed to support the commercial launch of multiple new product introductions. The funding was led by InterWest Partners LLC, a venture capital firm with offices in Menlo Park, Calif., and Dallas Texas. Kleiner Perkins Caufield & Byers (another Menlo Park-based venture capital firm) also participated.

Invuity offers a suite of products that integrate Eigr technology and address procedures in various surgical specialties including spine, orthopedics, head and neck, and breast oncology. The company develops medical devices to improve visualization in less invasive surgeries.