The Challenge
Eighty percent of the women who undergo an open surgical breast biopsy for a suspicious lesion discover that it is benign.

While relieved they don't have cancer, they've been through a tremendous amount of emotional and physical trauma. Though the biopsy was appropriate and necessary, the need for an open surgical biopsy was not. Suros Surgical Systems knew there had to be a less invasive way to obtain the same result. Could they simplify this traumatic procedure, while making it less invasive, safer, and faster?

Jim Pearson, president of Suros Surgical Systems, knew breast-disease diagnosis could be improved by using the patented ATEC (Automated Tissue Excision and Collection) breast system, a fully automated, minimally invasive, tissue- removal system. But he needed help.  

The Result
Suros had the technology, but they didn't have the capital to build the infrastructure of their company. Then they heard about Rose-Hulman Ventures. Rose-Hulman Ventures President Jim Eifert says, 'We have invested significant resources toward enhancing the ATEC technology including Success Fund capital for the sales and marketing resources we couldn't provide directly."

Suros originally went to Rose-Hulman Ventures for financing but found a partner in the process.

Jim Pearson says, "A partnership with Rose-Hulman Ventures is much more than an avenue to obtain financing. Working with them allowed us to improve critical product designs in a fast, efficient manner. The networking possibilities allowed us to make contact with different technologies and financing opportunities within the market. We are a stronger entity because of our partnership with Rose-Hulman Ventures."

Rose-Hulman Ventures and Suros teamed up to further develop the ATEC system, which is a pneumatic technology the physician can use with a variety of imaging modalities, such as ultrasound and stereotactic. Suros made the procedure safer by producing a device that is completely disposable. They also made it a closed system, which minimizes the exposure of the technician or physician to bodily fluids. Finally, by providing the physician the ability to biopsy and completely excise tissue in one simple step, Suros has made it faster and possible for this type of procedure to be completed in an office or outpatient setting.

In just 15 short months, the system has gained the attention of breast surgeons and radiologists across the country by offering the benefits of advanced technology, speed, safety and ease of use that exceed other competing breast biopsy devices. In May, 2003 Suros was honored with a Mira Award, presented to showcase progress and create awareness of companies and individuals who have made significant contributions to Indiana’s technology industry.

For more information about Suros, visit www.surossurgical.com.