Personalized Devices Transforming Radiotherapy for Cancer Patients

For decades, the radiation oncology industry has relied on the same methods and materials, focusing on improving existing techniques rather than embracing new technologies. Standard immobilization methods, such as thermoplastic sheets, are still widely used to secure body parts during treatment. While effective for areas like the head, these sheets fall short for complex cases, such as positioning pendulous breasts in the prone position. These sheets are heated and molded directly onto the skin, risking deformation and inconsistent positioning. Additionally, the patient must remain still for 10 minutes for the mask to harden, which can be very stressful. HeroSupport was founded to challenge this status quo, introducing innovative personalized devices that enhance precision, comfort, and reliability in radiotherapy treatments.

‍How it all began

HeroSupport revolutionizes patient care in radiation oncology. The company was founded by Giovanna Dipasquale, whose unique background in Zambia and love for problem-solving inspired her journey into medical physics, HeroSupport emerged from her passion for improving patient care. After earning a master’s in physics and specializing in Medical Physics, she moved to Switzerland, where she combined her expertise with that of her co-founder and husband, Johannes Uiterwijk, a physicist, and IT specialist.

While working in hospitals, Giovanna saw opportunities to create tools and processes that did not yet exist. One project involved improving treatments for breast cancer in the prone position, which reduced radiation to healthy tissues but presented significant positioning challenges. This inspired the idea of using 3D-printed immobilization shells designed with surface scanners and advanced imaging tools.

Progress was slow until Giovanna entered her first pitch competition, where her research won the Bio Innovation Day incubator prize in 2018. Encouraged by this success and supported by Innosuisse Science to Market classes, Giovanna and Johannes co-founded HeroSupport to bring these innovative solutions to women worldwide, improving breast cancer treatment and the overall radiotherapy experience.

Transforming Oncology with the Venus Shell

HeroSupport develops patient-specific immobilization devices using advanced additive manufacturing techniques. The flagship product Venus Shell is tailored for breast cancer patients undergoing radiation therapy. This lightweight, personalized device conforms to each patient’s anatomy, ensuring precise positioning during treatment. This precision reduces radiation exposure to healthy tissues, improves treatment efficacy, enhances patient comfort, and shortens treatment times. The special, patented imaging table allows for optimal positioning of the patient and imaging of the patient's body surface to create personalized models that perfectly fit each patient's anatomy.

Studies have demonstrated the benefits of prone positioning—where patients lie on their stomachs — in reducing irradiation of the lungs and heart. However, prone positioning presents challenges in achieving consistency. HeroSupport’s solution transforms radiotherapy treatment tables into personalized devices, improving patient comfort, enhancing positioning accuracy, and reducing the need for repeated imaging during treatment sessions.

Overcoming Industry Challenges

The radiation oncology sector faces significant challenges, including the need for more personalized treatment options, high costs, and slow adoption of innovative technologies. HeroSupport has addressed these obstacles by investing in research and development, collaborating with oncology professionals, and demonstrating the clinical and economic benefits of its solution.

Through close engagement with stakeholders and a focus on delivering measurable results, HeroSupport has established itself as a trusted innovator in the field.

Milestones and Achievements

Since its inception, HeroSupport has achieved remarkable progress. The company closed its first pre-seed funding round, which enabled the establishment of a skilled team and a well-equipped laboratory. These resources have been instrumental in developing and validating its cutting-edge products.

HeroSupport has gained industry recognition, winning awards like the Prix Strategis and MassChallenge Switzerland 2024, and earned a spot among the TOP 100 Swiss Startups in 2024. The company also secured an Innosuisse Startup Innovation Project (SIP), further advancing its research and development efforts.

HeroSupport has engaged with the medical community through sponsorships and presentations, including the SASRO radiotherapy congress in Switzerland and the ASTRO Congress in Washington. Participation in accelerators such as Tech4Eva and MassChallenge Switzerland has expanded its network and visibility.

In addition to recognition, the company has begun certifying its products, collaborated with hospitals across Europe, and obtained its first patent approval. These accomplishments reflect HeroSupport’s commitment to transforming radiation oncology and improving patient care.

Trends Shaping the Future of Radiation Oncology

The future of radiation oncology lies in precision medicine and the integration of AI-driven technologies. Patient-specific treatments, supported by advances in imaging, data analytics, and manufacturing, will become the norm. HeroSupport anticipates a shift towards patient-centric care, with a focus on minimizing side effects and improving clinical outcomes.

Additive manufacturing will continue to play a pivotal role, enabling the creation of customized solutions that enhance both patient and provider experiences. HeroSupport is committed to being at the forefront of these developments.

In conversation with Co-Founder Giovanna Dipasquale

What is the most important piece of advice you could give to anyone who wants to start a career in this industry?

Get good advice from those who have walked this road, primarily entrepreneurs, and be part of a startup group that you can create by participating in an accelerator.

How is a program such as Tech4Eva useful to you? Please provide a short quote.

Exchanging ideas with other FemTech companies, often led by inspiring female CEOs, and building strong connections has been an incredible opportunity through Tech4Eva. It’s also allowed us to gain visibility with patients, as we frequently address women’s health issues.

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