Method AI has raised $20m to support its development of a platform designed to overcome tumour visualisation challenges in robotic oncology surgery.
The US-based company, which spun out from the Cleveland Clinic in 2021, is developing imaging technology to visualise anatomy below the visible surface of an organ that it claims is “beyond the view” of existing surgical camera systems.
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Method’s platform aims to achieve this with the continuous delivery of 3D ultrasound imaging throughout a procedure.
The completed platform will provide a 3D subsurface map for physicians while providing them with real-time guidance comparable to AI-generated surgical plans, the company said.
Despite continuing advancements in robotic surgery, research indicates that up to 40% of oncology procedures using the tech fail in fully removing a tumour.
Method’s CEO Doug Teany explained that during complex oncology procedures, surgeons often have to remove tumours that are partially or completely embedded within the organ. He added that this reality makes it “extremely difficult” to assess a tumour’s margins during a live surgery.
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By GlobalDataTeany said: “This incomplete view of the tumour and other critical anatomy leads to cancer left behind, unforeseen complications and loss of organ function.
“Our technology can make the difference between completely removing a tumour or leaving part of it behind, which significantly impacts long-term patient outcomes.”
Method’s Series A financing round was led by an unnamed private family office and included participation from JobsOhio Growth Capital Fund and the Cleveland Clinic.
Despite its limitations, research suggests that robotic surgery provides a safer approach to tumour removal. It is most commonly used for bladder tumour removals, given the hard-to-reach nature of the organ. A 2022 clinical trial led by University College London (UCL) found that robotic surgery reduced the chance of patient readmission by 52% and reduced the prevalence of blood clots by 77% versus patients who underwent open surgery for bladder cancer.
According to a GlobalData market model, the overall global robotic surgical systems market is growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12.1% and projected to reach a valuation of $9.2bn by 2034, up from $2.9bn in 2024. The use of AI across healthcare is rapidly advancing, with the market projected to reach a $19bn valuation by 2027.
