About OR-X

spectacular spiral staircase at OR-X

Our mission

Bridging research and surgical practice

Our mission is to improve tomorrow’s surgery by creating and implementing innovative and disruptive technologies. Working closely with clinicians, researchers and partners, to explore new ideas, question established approaches and develop solutions that can be applied in real clinical settings. Through this collaborative and hands-on approach, we help translate research into practical advances that ultimately benefit patients.

Embedded in a clinical and research ecosystem

A graphic illustrating the OR-X as part of the Balgrist ecosystem.
Embedded in a clinical and research ecosystem

The OR-X is embedded within the Balgrist Group, a leading center for musculoskeletal medicine where clinical care, research and innovation are closely intertwined. Through direct integration into a university hospital environment, we gain immediate access to clinical expertise, real-world challenges and established research infrastructure.

Within this ecosystem, we provide a shared environment where clinicians, researchers and industry partners work side by side. This close proximity fosters interdisciplinary collaboration and accelerates the translation of research outcomes into clinical application.

What defines us?

  • Surgical Excellence

    By translating research into clinical practice, the OR-X develops innovative treatment options that meet the highest standards of surgical excellence. We bridge scientific discovery and patient care while contributing to high-quality surgical education through modern training and research environments.

  • Open-access platform

    The OR-X is rooted in the principles of open access, inclusion and collaboration. We actively exchange knowledge across disciplines and borders and engage with clinical and academic institutions, governmental bodies and industry partners. By providing shared infrastructure and expertise, we enable collaboration beyond organisational boundaries.

  • Bring your own device

    The OR-X enables researchers and developers to work with their own tools, prototypes or products within a highly realistic surgical environment. We support projects with our trained staff and complement them with state-of-the-art equipment as needed.

  • Impact

    As a strategic infrastructure pillar of University Medicine Zurich (UMZH), the OR-X plays a central role in connecting universities, university hospitals and industry. Together, we create long-term value for scientific research, education and the professional training of healthcare professionals in Switzerland and internationally.