Medical device development of surgical instruments
Some projects push every discipline at once, especially in the field of medical device development. Our collaboration with Acoustic Insight, a Delft-based medtech startup, was exactly that kind of project. We helped develop two advanced surgical endoscopes — one for cochlear implant surgery, one for middle ear implant surgery.
Surgical endoscopes for hearing implant surgery
Both devices use optical coherence tomography (OCT). This laser-based imaging technology gives surgeons real-time, high-resolution visuals during delicate ear surgery procedures. The goal is clear: better guidance leads to better outcomes for patients.
We brought design, engineering, and prototyping
Studio Rotor joined forces with Acoustic Insight’s internal team and contributed across the full development process. Our work included both (opto)mechanical design of the internals as well as product design of the enclosure (usability, aesthetics, manufacturability). We also drove prototyping by turning concepts into physical, testable hardware.
Tight constraints in medtech
Working in medtech means navigating tight constraints. Every millimeter counts. Mechanical precision lays the foundation for optical performance. And the device still needs to feel right in a surgeon’s hand. We tackled all of this together.
Two applications, one platform
The cochlear implant endoscope guides surgeons during electrode array insertion. It visualizes the inside of the cochlea through the round window in real time. Surgeons can measure critical anatomical parameters and monitor insertion depth, reducing the risk of damaging delicate inner ear structures.
The middle ear version focuses on reconstructive surgery. It helps surgeons measure prosthesis length and position with accuracy. Small differences in placement make a big difference to sound transmission. Precise, real-time feedback gives surgeons the control they need.
Built for a regulated, high-stakes medical environment
Developing medical devices demands more than technical skill. It requires clear thinking across disciplines, close collaboration, and a thorough understanding of the clinical context. Studio Rotor brought structured design thinking and hands-on engineering to every stage.
The products remain under development and are not yet medically certified. They currently serve research and clinical investigation purposes.
Are you developing a complex medical device?
We enjoy multi-layered challenges. Projects that sit at the intersection of healthcare, human factors and high-tech engineering are exactly where we do our best work. If your company is developing a high-tech medical device and needs a design and engineering partner, we’d love to talk.
We work with you in each phase of the development, from idea to realisation.
Studio Rotor’s involvement:
Optomechanical engineering, industrial design, ergonomics, prototype engineering, testing.
Client (external link):
Acoustic Insight