XS Innovations, a spinout from Leiden University Medical Center (LUMC) and Delft University of Technology (TU Delft), has announced the successful closure of a 1.1 million EUR seed funding round. This investment will accelerate the development of XS Innovations’ Dynamic AVF, a vascular access device designed to address the prevalent complications associated with hemodialysis.
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Dynamic AVF is expected to significantly reduce complication rates and extend the lifespan of vascular access according to the company, with the potential to improve outcomes and overall quality of life for ESKD patients.
The financing round includes FIRST Fund (managed by BGV), Medtech TTT Fund (managed by Innovation Industries), UNIIQ, Delft Enterprises, Libertatis Ergo Holding, and the Graduate Entrepreneur Fund.
Globally, approximately 4 million patients are affected by end-stage kidney disease (ESKD) says XS, with 70% of them relying on hemodialysis as a vital component of their treatment. The company says that the conventional high-flow vascular access sites required for hemodialysis often lead to severe complications, such as vascular access occlusion, heart failure, and steal syndrome.
Recognising this need, Dutch-based researchers from Leiden University Medical Center and Delft University of Technology collaborated to develop the Dynamic AVF. Unlike traditional arteriovenous fistulas (AVF), which maintain high blood flow continuously, the Dynamic AVF connects the artery and vein only during dialysis, while keeping the AVF closed during the rest of the time and ensuring normal blood circulation.
CEO, XS Innovations Toon Stilma said: “I am incredibly proud to be part of a team that is dedicated to addressing the root cause of vascular access complications in a novel way. We are determined to accelerate the development of the Dynamic AVF and bring this life-changing device to market. We are committed to improving the lives of patients with kidney failure whilst revolutionising the field of hemodialysis treatment.”
CSO, XS Innovations Joris Rotmans said: “This financing allows us to establish a clear path forward for the introduction of the Dynamic AVF into the clinical care for patients with kidney failure in need for a better vascular access for hemodialysis. These patients suffer short term from high re-operation rates which impact their quality of life, and in the long term, many suffer from severe cardiovascular comorbidity. I am excited about the prospect of creating an alternative for ESKD patients that can address these issues.”
FIRST Fund’s Jaap de Bruin, on behalf of the investor syndicate added: “The syndicate is confident that the XSI team has the innovation and know-how to further develop the Dynamic AVF device, supported by a strong advisory board. We believe that the Dynamic AVF can have a transformative effect on the outcomes and quality of life in patients receiving dialysis care.”
