Cipher Surgical

About Cipher Surgical

Cipher Surgical is a medical device company, established in 2010, that develops technology to improve visualization during minimally invasive surgeries. The company was founded by Andrew Newell, an experienced investor in healthcare who previously served as a regional director for Fidelity International in the Asia-Pacific and has advised numerous companies in Europe, North America, and Asia over the last two decades. In March 2024, Newell transitioned from CEO to Executive Chairman, with Mark Alley, former President of the U.S. division, taking over as CEO.

The company's flagship product is the OpClear® platform, a single-use device designed to keep the lens of a laparoscope clear during surgical procedures. The technology addresses common visual obstructions such as fog, smoke, blood, and other debris by providing an automated flow of CO2 and an on-demand saline wash directly at the lens tip. This eliminates the need for surgeons to frequently remove the scope for cleaning, a process that can interrupt the flow of an operation and is associated with longer procedure times. The OpClear system consists of a control unit, a footswitch, and a sterile disposable sheath that attaches to the laparoscope, and it is compatible with most major brands of laparoscopic instruments.

Cipher Surgical's business model centers on the sale of its OpClear platform to hospitals and surgical centers. The company operates in the global medical device market, with a particular focus on laparoscopic and robotic surgeries in fields like bariatrics, gynecology, urology, and colorectal surgery. It primarily sells through specialist sales agents and distributors. As of August 2024, Elemental Healthcare became the exclusive distributor for OpClear in the United Kingdom.

The company is headquartered in Chantilly, Virginia, USA, and was originally founded in Coventry, UK. Since its inception, Cipher Surgical has raised over $13.2 million in funding. A significant milestone was the completion of a $10 million Series A funding round in April 2025, led by Medical Solutions, Inc. This capital is intended to accelerate the commercialization of OpClear®, support clinical research, and expand its sales and marketing footprint across Europe, Asia, Australia, and the United States.