The support of trusted partners has been instrumental in transforming our vision into a thriving reality. From academic institutions to industry leaders, our collaborations have fostered a robust foundation for growth and set the pace for meaningful innovations. In this interview, OR-X co-founder Thomas Huggler reflects on the achievements made possible through these partnerships, highlighting the unique collaborative spirit that defines the value of these alliances in advancing both technology and surgical practice.
Thomas Huggler Discusses A Year of Successful Partnerships
5 Takeaways from our Co-Founder
5 Takeaways from our Co-Founder
How have our partners contributed to the successful first year of the OR-X?
Thomas Huggler: A project like the OR-X requires time to grow and establish itself in the market. At this crucial early stage, it’s essential to have partners who believe in the vision and recognize its potential to impact the future of medicine. We’re incredibly grateful for the many academic and industrial partners from diverse fields who have supported us in various ways. Their contributions have been vital in making OR-X a sustainable, long-term success, allowing us to build a strong foundation for growth.
How have our partnerships developed in the meantime?
Thomas Huggler: Our cooperation with existing partners has developed into a truly strong collaboration. This strength comes from the fact that they are not merely sponsors; they are true partners who share our goals and vision. Like us, they are committed to advancing medicine and technology, and they are walking this developmental path alongside us. Together, we are working toward common objectives, which has created a deep, mutually beneficial partnership grounded in shared interests and a dedication to innovation.
What events and successes from the first year are personal highlights for you?
Thomas Huggler: My personal highlight from the first year of the OR-X is seeing the constant activity and engagement – sometimes even on a weekend. When you start a project like this, there’s always a fear it might end up as a static “museum” with impressive infrastructure and advanced technology but without active use. What happened was the complete opposite. Even before the official opening, the infrastructure was already being used, and everyone could see the tangible benefits. There has been overwhelming interest from diverse areas – hospitals, industry, technology, and research – all eager to use OR-X as a hub for faster, more innovative progress. It’s rewarding to witness our facility become a place where new ideas are realized and shared, setting a pace of innovation that would be hard to achieve elsewhere.
Why will the OR-X remain an attractive partner for collaboration with companies and research institutions in the future?
Thomas Huggler: The OR-X will continue to be an attractive cooperation partner for companies and research institutions because it’s situated at the heart of innovation, bridging the hospital and the research facility. This unique location allows us to integrate all key players – doctors, researchers, engineers – right where they’re needed, creating an environment where advancements can happen faster and more efficiently than if our infrastructure were separate from clinical and research settings. Beyond offering state-of-the-art facilities, OR-X provides critical expertise with an own dedicated team of surgeons and scientists. This combination of infrastructure and know-how makes OR-X not just a place for collaboration, but a catalyst for groundbreaking innovation that benefits all partners involved.
What personal wish do you have for the future of the OR-X in terms of developing and strengthening partnerships?
Thomas Huggler: My personal wish for the OR-X is that it continues to evolve and adapt to meet the needs of surgeons and researchers shaping the medicine of tomorrow. We don’t just aim to stay at the forefront of today’s knowledge – we strive to stay ahead and lead the way forward. I’m confident that OR-X won’t become outdated in three to five years; instead, it will continually reinvent itself to remain a dynamic and attractive hub for future generations of surgeons and researchers. This adaptability is key to fostering enduring partnerships and ensuring that OR-X remains a center for pioneering advancements in medicine and technology.
Partnerships Gallery
