Rhovica raises CHF 2.3 million to advance bedside neurosurgery navigation

Bern-based medtech Rhovica Neuroimaging has secured CHF 2.3 million to accelerate development of its SoNav system for safer emergency neurosurgery.

Rhovica Neuroimaging AG, a Bern-based medtech start-up, has closed a CHF 2.3 million financing round to drive the development of SoNav, its bedside navigation system designed for life-saving drainage procedures in neurocritical care. The round was led by M2care, with participation from Kickfund, Valuemaker and several business angels.

Founded in 2023 by neurosurgeons Martin Hlavica and Thomas Rhomberg, Rhovica focuses on improving emergency treatment for patients with life-threatening intracranial pressure caused by trauma or hemorrhage. One of the most common interventions in such cases is the insertion of an external ventricular drain (EVD). Traditionally, this procedure is performed either freehand at the bedside, fast but imprecise, or with operating room navigation systems, which delay urgent treatment. This trade-off between speed and accuracy often compromises patient outcomes.

Transforming emergency neurosurgery

Rhovica’s SoNav system addresses this challenge by integrating advanced sensors that deliver real-time visualization, enabling guided catheter placement directly at the bedside. In addition, SoNav is designed to continuously monitor brain ventricles, reducing reliance on repeated CT scans, improving safety, and lowering healthcare costs. This positions Rhovica to tap into the growing neurosurgical device market, expected to expand by up to 14.2% annually.

The new funding builds on Rhovica’s momentum, which includes recognition as a finalist in the Swiss Technology Award and success in the Venture Kick program. “This fundraising marks an important milestone for Rhovica. The trust of our investors strengthens our ability to advance the development of SoNav and move closer to making this solution available to patients in need,” said CEO and Co-founder Martin Hlavica.

M2care, a European venture studio created by Mérieux Développement and CEA Investissement, brings investment capacity and operational expertise to early-stage healthtech ventures. To support Rhovica’s next phase, M2care Managing Director Carsten Laue has joined the company’s Board of Directors, contributing strategic guidance in medtech development and commercialization.