World-leading cancer clinic first user of South West-designed medical device

A South West medical device firm focused on minimally invasive cancer surgery has secured a world-leading NHS unit as the first customer for its pioneering endoscopy product.

Patients at St Mark’s Hospital in North West London will be the first to benefit from Creo Medical Group’s SpydrBlade Flex, a unique multi-modal endoscopic device designed for precision and adaptability in endoscopic procedures.

Creo Medical, which develops and commercialises minimally invasive electrosurgical devices from its bases in Chepstow and Bath, said SpydrBlade Flex had the potential to further reduce surgical waiting lists in the NHS.

The firm, which is listed on the London Stock Exchange’s AIM market, has a vision to improve patient outcomes through technology that optimises surgical capability. Its products are being adapted for use with robotic-assisted surgical platforms.

The agreement with St Mark’s Hospital represents the UK and EU commercial launch of SpydrBlade Flex following extensive pre-launch global clinical activity.

St Mark’s Hospital is one of the UK’s leading endoscopy units and recognised as a world centre of excellence by the WEO (World Endoscopy Organisation).

The hospital is already an established and regular user of Creo’s Speedboat UltraSlim device.

Creo said today it would now be ramping up the full commercial launch of SpydrBlade Flex via its core sales channels in the UK and the EU as well as other international territories, including the US, once local regulatory approvals hd been received.

SpydrBlade Flex will be showcased among the latest endoscopy technology at the upcoming ESGE (European Society of Gastrointestinal Endoscopy) Days 2025 conference in Barcelona next month.

Creo chief executive officer Craig Gulliford said it was fitting that SpydrBlade Flex’s first commercial customer was such a recognised centre as St Marks.

“SpydrBlade really is one of the most advanced surgical tools and again, Creo has pioneered the introduction of this technology into the tiny footprint of a flexible endoscopic instrument,” he added.

“Speedboat UltraSlim alongside SpydrBlade Flex will enhance the care of patients with a wide range of conditions ranging from cancers to swallowing disorders, as well as their increasing use in the rapidly growing treatment of Barriatric conditions.”

He said both products would continue to help move the point of care from surgery and the operating theatre to the endoscopy room allowing us to further reduce surgical waiting lists not only in the NHS, but globally.

“We expect to see further commercial traction as more people adopt our new technology, and following further regulatory approvals, including the FDA clearance to allow our commercial launch in the US,” he added.

Founded in 2003 by Prof Chris Hancock under the name MicroOncology, Creo Medical initially focused on utilising high-frequency microwave energy and dynamic matching techniques for cancer treatment.

Over time, the company’s strategic vision expanded to encompass the development of medical devices with broader applications, leading to a rebranding as Creo Medical in 2010.