B. Braun has expanded its capabilities in advanced surgical visualization by acquiring True Digital Surgery (TDS), a specialist in robotic-assisted 3D exoscope technology. Having held a minority stake in TDS, B. Braun’s surgical division Aesculap will now integrate TDS’s entire team and intellectual property into its global operations, further accelerating the development of the AEOS digital exoscope platform used in neurosurgery, spine, and ENT procedures.
Digital exoscopes represent a significant shift away from traditional optical microscopes by projecting high-definition, stereoscopic images onto 3D monitors. Surgeons gain the ability to operate while standing upright, reducing neck and back strain, and enjoy enhanced visualization at challenging angles. These benefits have driven rapid adoption in high-precision fields where minimizing fatigue and maximizing clarity can directly impact patient outcomes.
True Digital Surgery’s Goleta, California, facility will remain an innovation hub for Aesculap, preserving the startup’s agile culture and specialized engineering teams. This continuity ensures ongoing research into next-generation optics, robotics integration, and software enhancements by folding TDS’s know-how into B. Braun’s extensive global infrastructure, combined with the organization, can bring new digital microsurgery solutions to market more quickly and reliably.
The deal furthers Aesculap’s goal of delivering a fully integrated surgical ecosystem, combining advanced visualization tools with intuitive instrument design and digital workflow management. Surgeons and hospitals will benefit from streamlined support services, unified training programs, and coordinated product roadmaps that leverage B. Braun’s scale.
The global market for digital exoscopes is growing rapidly as demand rises for surgical tools that improve ergonomics and image quality. By securing full ownership of True Digital Surgery, B. Braun positions itself to capture a larger share of that market and to support complex procedures with end-to-end digital solutions.
With over 64,000 employees and 2024 sales of € 9.1 billion, B. Braun is well-positioned to scale the exoscope business globally. Aesculap will leverage its international sales and service network to introduce TDS-derived technologies to hospitals and surgical centers worldwide, reinforcing its reputation as a partner in advancing patient care.
KEY QUOTES:
“This strategic move enables us to integrate the cutting-edge technology and innovative capabilities of TDS. By combining the best of both worlds, we can continue to provide our customers with best-in-class systems in robotic assisted 3D microsurgery. We are excited about the potential this acquisition brings and the opportunities to further develop our digital surgical solutions.”
Dr. Jens von Lackum, member of the B. Braun executive board and responsible for the surgical division Aesculap
“This merger with such a highly respected healthcare organization as B. Braun represents an exciting new milestone for True Digital Surgery and is a natural extension of the successful partnership we’ve enjoyed for several years. The combination of our groundbreaking technologies with B. Braun’s access to the global healthcare market represents an incomparable opportunity for both companies to further improve the lives of patients and medical professionals the world over.”
Aidan Foley, former TDS CEO and Chairman of the Board
