Based on research at Stanford University, Zenflow is developing medical devices to treat obstructive urinary symptoms.
Zenflow, a US-based medical device manufacturer based on research at Stanford University, closed a $31.4m series A round today co-led by Invus Opportunities, Medical Technology Venture Partners and F-Prime Capital Partners.
Unnamed new and existing backers also participated in the series A round. F-Prime Capital is a subsidiary of financial services group Fidelity.
Founded in 2014, Zenflow is working on minimally invasive devices aimed at obstructive urinary symptoms caused by a non-cancerous enlargement of the prostate, a condition known as benign prostatic hyperplasia (BPH).
The company’s lead product, Spring System, consists of a superelastic catheter that aims to permanently relieve symptoms in a single procedure. The device boasts quick recovery times and has minimal side effects.
The technology is based on research by Nick Damiano and Shreya Mehta, who developed it during their time with the Stanford Biodesign Innovation Fellowship.
The series A funding will go towards additional clinical studies for Spring System in the UK, Australia, New Zeland and Mexico in 2018 and the preparation of a commercial launch.
Zenflow will also seek an investigational device exemption from the US regulator, Food and Drug Administration, to launch a trial in the US.
The company has not confirmed details about its seed round, though various sources put the amount at $5.2m. Astia Angels, NewDo Venture, Varsity Ventures and Dorm Room Fund list Zenflow as a portfolio company.
Harcharan Gill, professor of urology at Stanford University, said: “The Zenflow Spring System is a promising new treatment option for men suffering from BPH symptoms.
“The device can be deployed in a simple procedure in the urologist’s office under direct visualisation through a flexible delivery system, which should minimise patient discomfort. I look forward to seeing the results of the upcoming clinical trials.”
