Knee injuries are common. But for hundreds of thousands of patients who undergo meniscus removal surgery, the real struggle often begins afterwards.
Many continue to live with persistent pain and early-stage osteoarthritis, yet have limited surgical options that preserve the joint long term. Dutch MedTech company ATRO Medical is trying to change that.
The Nijmegen-based clinical-stage orthopaedic company has raised €3 million in fresh financing to advance its artificial meniscus implant toward pivotal clinical trials in the United States and Europe. The round consists mainly of equity investments, alongside non-dilutive funding.
Investors include 819 Capital, Thuja Capital, Bolwork International Investment, DSM-Firmenich Ventures, Samaplast, and other backers from the Netherlands, Switzerland and the United Arab Emirates.
ATRO Medical has received funding at a key moment as it advances testing of its new Artimis Meniscus Prosthesis design. Current studies are evaluating how well the implant performs in patients with ongoing knee pain after meniscus removal.
ATRO Medical has made clinical advancements and improved its intellectual property. It has also gained recognition by being chosen for the PlugAndPlay Health incubator in the US, setting the stage for future growth.
The newly secured capital will help expand clinical evidence in these studies and prepare the company for larger pivotal trials in both Europe and the US. The funds will also support manufacturing optimisation, regulatory readiness, and clinical operations.
Strengthening leadership
Alongside the funding, the company announced a leadership transition to support its next stage of growth.
Maarten van der Zanden has been appointed Chief Executive Officer, moving from his previous role as Chief Implementation Officer. He brings experience in international MedTech product launches across several medical specialities.
Michiel Schwartz, Chairman of the Board of ATRO Medical, comments: “This investment reflects strong international confidence in ATRO Medical’s technology, team and strategy. The recent clinical outcomes confirm that we have cracked the code for patients with post-meniscectomy pain. With this experienced leadership team and a clear path toward pivotal studies in the US and Europe, ATRO Medical is entering a defining phase in its development.”
Anita Brinks will continue as Chief Operating Officer, overseeing operations and quality systems as the company prepares for pivotal clinical programs. She brings more than 25 years of experience in medical practice and healthcare innovation.
Founder Tony van Tienen will focus on clinical strategy and scientific development as Chief Medical Officer. In addition to his role at ATRO Medical, he practices as a knee surgeon at the Viasana Clinic and is known internationally for his expertise in meniscus surgery and joint preservation.
The company says this executive structure is designed to align clinical progress, operational execution, market preparation and fundraising as it moves toward regulatory milestones.
Funding campaign on the Eyevestor platform
ATRO Medical also plans to broaden participation in this financing round. Following interest from private investors and patients, the company will extend the round through a share-funding campaign on the Eyevestor platform, starting in March.
This will allow individuals to invest in the company’s clinical development efforts and international expansion.
ATRO Medical is focused on generating strong clinical evidence to support regulatory approvals in both Europe and the United States.
The company’s artificial meniscus implant is designed to address that gap by restoring joint function while keeping future treatment pathways open.
