A UK start-up is making strides in supporting surgeons with AI-driven technology.
Oxford Heartbeat’s PreSize Neurovascular software is revolutionising stent placement by enabling surgeons to simulate and rehearse procedures, enhancing accuracy and improving patient outcomes.
Currently used in hospitals across the UK, Germany, and Finland, PreSize is a cutting-edge tool designed to mitigate the challenges of stent placement, a procedure often performed via a femoral artery incision.
Despite its critical role in preventing and treating brain aneurysms, stent placement remains fraught with risk, with up to 20% of cases requiring further intervention due to complications.
Dr Katerina Spranger, CEO and founder of Oxford Heartbeat, said: ‘Brain surgery is absolutely fascinating. In the brain, everything is important, and the margin for error is very small. Every little, tiny vessel is important because it might be supplying something vital – eyesight, body movement, bowel function, you name it. During brain surgery, if there is damage, the consequences can be irreversible. So, my view is that if there is anything that we can do to contribute to greater accuracy, then it should be done.’
Her journey began with a strong foundation in computer science and robotics, followed by her pursuit of biomedical engineering at the University of Oxford and UCL.
While researching the development of brain aneurysms, she saw the potential to combine artificial intelligence with clinical expertise to solve real-world surgical challenges.
Oxford Heartbeat was created by her vision to make impactful advancements. She realised she could use her skills and knowledge of techniques such as AI to simulate neurovascular surgical procedures. After consulting dozens of surgeons in the field about how best to approach this task, she found Oxford Heartbeat.
She said: ‘That was one of the most challenging times for me. Imagine as a student approaching these hugely experienced surgeons and saying: “Maybe I could help you with this.” It took a while to find clinicians who were open-minded in terms of innovation. Those early adopters and advocates are still with us now.’
The company, incorporated in 2016 at UCL’s BaseKX entrepreneurship hub, received extensive support from UCL Innovation & Enterprise and public and private funding totalling £4 million.
Oxford Heartbeat’s achievements include the Innovate UK Women in Innovation Award, a Purple Plaque in 2024, and partnerships with leading institutions such as The Royal Academy of Engineering and Philips HealthWorks.
PreSize Neurovascular has received CE mark certification, allowing its use in clinical practice. The platform has proven instrumental in preparing surgeons for complex procedures, providing critical insights before operating.
Early clinical trial results suggest measurable benefits, such as reduced procedure times and fewer complications.
- For more information about Oxford Heartbeat and PreSize, visit www.oxfordheartbeat.com.
