First Imaging Raises $14.5 Million to Advance AI-Powered Intraoperative Imaging

First Imaging Raises $14.5 Million to Advance AI-Powered Intraoperative Imaging

First Imaging, a Nantong-based medical imaging equipment provider, has closed a Series B+ financing round exceeding RMB 100 million (USD 14.5 million). The investment, led by Sichuan Development Hongke Private Equity Fund Management with participation from Softbank, Nanjing Jushi Venture Investment, and others, will accelerate market promotion of intelligent intraoperative imaging devices and digital consumables development, supporting the company’s “equipment + AI + ecosystem” strategy to transform surgical procedures from experience-driven to intelligence-driven.

Financing Overview

ElementDetail
CompanyFirst Imaging (Nantong-based)
RoundSeries B+
Amount Raised>RMB 100 million (USD 14.5 million)
Lead InvestorSichuan Development Hongke Private Equity Fund Management
Other InvestorsSoftbank, Nanjing Jushi Venture Investment, and more
Use of ProceedsIntelligent intraoperative imaging market promotion; digital consumables R&D

Technology Platform & Market Position

CapabilityFirst Imaging SolutionStrategic Value
Intraoperative 3D ImagingMultiple product portfolioReal-time surgical visualization; improved precision
AI Integration“Equipment + AI + Ecosystem” closed-loopIntelligence-driven surgery; predictive analytics; workflow optimization
Digital ConsumablesComplementary single-use productsRecurring revenue stream; razor-razorblade model
Clinical Reach>200 hospitals and departments servedEstablished market presence; adoption validation

Strategic Vision: Experience-Driven to Intelligence-Driven Surgery

Traditional ApproachFirst Imaging Intelligence-Driven ApproachTransformation
Surgeon-dependentAI-augmented decision supportReduced variability; standardized outcomes
2D imaging limitations3D intraoperative visualizationEnhanced spatial awareness; reduced complications
Post-operative assessmentReal-time feedback and adjustmentImmediate correction; improved safety
Isolated equipmentIntegrated ecosystemSeamless workflow; data-driven continuous improvement

Market Context & Competitive Positioning

FactorStrategic Analysis
China Surgical Imaging Market>10 million surgeries annually requiring intraoperative guidance; 3D imaging adoption accelerating with AI integration
Digital Surgery TrendMedtronic, Stryker, Siemens pursuing AI-powered surgical platforms; First Imaging domestic innovation captures policy support and cost advantage
Softbank Investment SignalGlobal tech investor validation of Chinese medtech AI potential; international expansion pathway
Provincial Government SupportSichuan Development Hongke (state-backed) investment aligns with “Healthy China 2030” and medical device localization priorities
Ecosystem Play“Equipment + AI + Consumables” model creates multiple revenue streams and customer lock-in vs. pure hardware competitors

Growth Strategy & Use of Proceeds

PriorityApplicationTimeline
Market ExpansionIntelligent intraoperative imaging promotion to tier-1/2 hospitals; key opinion leader engagement2026-2027
Product DevelopmentNext-generation 3D imaging; AI algorithm enhancement; digital consumables portfolio2026-2028
Ecosystem BuildingSurgical data platform; remote consultation capabilities; training and education programs2027+
Regulatory ExpansionNMPA Class III device approvals; CE Mark and FDA pathway evaluation2026-2028

Forward‑Looking Statements
This brief contains forward‑looking statements regarding First Imaging’s market expansion, AI-powered surgical platform adoption, and digital consumables commercialization. Actual results may differ due to hospital procurement cycle variability, competitive responses from multinational medtech giants, and regulatory approval timelines for AI-enabled medical devices.-Fineline Info & Tech