POSTED BY
Liz Moyles
Alon is a fascinating person with a very interesting military aviation background and experience which gave him the skills and idea for the concept behind Surgical Theater. If you want to learn more read on...
Here’s what he had to say:
- Alon, tell me was Medical Devices your first passion or an opportunity which suddenly felt the right path to be on?
I never imagined that medical devices would become my primary focus. My passion has always been rooted in understanding large scale processes and in guiding a project from its inception to its fruition. This drove me to thoroughly explore these subjects through my studies in Industrial Engineering and my Master’s in Business Administration, simultaneously managing these commitments alongside my military service. For 15 years I contributed to the flight simulation industry, leading teams around the world on G2G projects. Over time, I began to see the vast potential applications of this technology. When the perfect opportunity presented itself, I shifted my focus to the field of medical devices, which has captivated me for the last nine years. I am a firm believer in pursuing one's passions as the cornerstone of leadership and excellence in any field.
- I happen to also know that you were recognised with The US Department of State Award for your contribution to the US operations in Afghanistan – well done. So, having had a career in Elbit Systems, how did you transition to running a medical device company and how did you move from saving lives in the defence industry to saving lives in the Operating Room?
Being involved in the defence industry and contributing to the mission of protecting US and NATO’s troops came with a great feeling of reward. However, the fulfilment from knowing your technology is saving the lives of newborns, children, and patients is incomparable. It is incredibly moving to receive a call from a grateful parent, expressing their heartfelt thanks for the technology that supported their newborn through complex brain surgery on just their third day of life, and who is now a thriving 5-year-old.
The application of VR technology serves as a bridge between surgeons, patients, and caregivers, allowing the patient to better comprehend their situations and become more engaged in their own healthcare. This technology helps to build trust between patients and surgeon and with that trust comes comfort.
- You say that this technology brings comfort and greater understanding to parents and the children who are currently some of the patients where Surgical Theatre’s technology is being used. I understand that unfortunately and fortunately, you had a very personal experience of the value if this technology. Are you open to sharing this if you are comfortable doing so?
About three years ago my son was diagnosed with an aggressive form of cancer and a massive tumor in his pelvic region. This technology was instrumental in his treatment journey. It allowed us as his parents to “fly” inside our son’s anatomy, truly understanding what’s going on, empowering us to be actively involved in the most critical decisions throughout his treatment. The medical team leveraged the technology to visualize anatomical structures previously hidden from view, also employing VR to meticulously plan his surgery. Following a complex successful orthopedic surgery, my son has triumphantly overcome cancer and shines as the main goalkeeper for his soccer team.
- Your solution has been used in some amazing cases in the world, can you share a couple of them?
Our solution has been utilized successfully in tens of thousands of cases around the world, however some instances particularly standout. Notably, we’ve contributed to the treatment of conjoined twins in two separated cases - one in Israel and the other in Italy – and we're currently involved in a third case in Texas, with surgery scheduled in the coming months. The most rewarding feedback is when surgeons inform us that our technology enabled them to devise a superior surgical strategy, turning what could have been catastrophic into triumphs. This essentially means that lives have been saved, thanks to the intervention of our platform – a sentiment we hear quite often and deeply value.
- What are you most proud about regarding your team, the technology, your company?
I am most proud of our team's unwavering dedication and commitment to saving lives, combined with our pioneering technology that has been instrumental in turning potentially complex and risky surgeries into remarkable success stories. Our team's relentless pursuit of excellence and innovation in XR not only sets new standards in the medical field but has also tangibly improved patient outcomes, showcasing our collective impact on healthcare and underscoring the profound difference we make in the lives of those we serve.
- What is the most constructive piece of feedback you have ever received from a KOL or from a mentor?
The most honest and direct feedback, even when critical, is the most valuable. This type of feedback is a catalyst for change. When a KOL tells you “In your face” that a feature which was developed over weeks is not enhancing his skill, it motivates our teams to go back to the drawing board and come back with something better. That candid process of learning and improving is what helps us create the value we bring to surgeons.
- Finally, what do you love doing when not in work, perhaps to relax and what song would get you on the dance floor or singing on karaoke?
I travel a lot for work, so when not at work I love spending time with my family. Skiing with my older kids or scootering around with my little one, these moments are my greatest joy. I love the music of Ed Sheeran. Latin music will get me on the dance floor though.
Thanks, Alon this is a really fascinating interview and I am humbled that you felt comfortable enough sharing some very personal insights. The difference which Surgical Theater and your team have made to the world so far is incredible and the technology holds such great potential for other patients with other conditions. This is tip of the iceberg for what you and the team can achieve!
