3D-Printed Spinal Cage Manufacturer Receives Growth Financing

SHS Gesellschaft für Beteiligungsmanagement mbH is investing in EIT Emerging Implant Technologies GmbH. EIT was established in Tuttlingen, Germany in 2014 and manufactures spinal implant cages using 3D printing technology. SHS is investing funds from its fourth fund generation to finance EIT’s international growth and development of its innovative products.
 
3D printing, which is also known as additive manufacturing, is used to manufacture cellular and porous implants of biocompatible titanium. These implants mimic the structure and stiffness of natural bone material more accurately than implants manufactured using traditional methods. This in turn promotes bone ingrowth following fusion operations to achieve better clinical results and reduce complication rates. In addition to this, the implants can be fitted on a patient-specific basis, which serves to increase the contact surface and reduce future risks.
 
“Our EIT Cellular Titanium implants provide the answer to current challenges in implant design and choice of materials as well the extreme cost pressure in medical technology. The additive manufacturing technology allows us to tackle existing problems with new solutions. Thus we can improve the benefits for patients without increasing costs, which is a clear competitive advantage”, explains Guntmar Eisen, founder and CEO of EIT. “This ensures a high level of patient satisfaction and excellent clinical results. We are looking forward to pushing ahead with our international growth, especially in the United States, and our product development with our new partner SHS.”
 
“EIT’s 3D-printed spine implants have already proven their superior functionality many times in practical applications, thus promoting EIT’s growth”, adds Dr. Bernhard Schirmers, Managing Partner at SHS Gesellschaft für Beteiligungsmanagement. “EIT Emerging Implant Technologies’ management team is experienced and successful in the field of spine surgery. As a medical technology investor, we look forward to supporting them on their path to increased growth.”
 
“With SHS, EIT is gaining a shareholder with extensive experience in this industry. Together we can enter the next stage of EIT’s growth. This includes development of the company’s innovative product portfolio as well as entering new countries”, says Guy Selbherr, Managing Director of MBG Mittelständische Beteiligungsgesellschaft Baden-Württemberg.
 
With a total volume of 125 million euro, the fourth SHS fund is focusing on expansion financing, changes in shareholder structures and successor situations. The Tübingen based investor is planning further acquisitions and investments in the fast-growing medical technology and life-science industries in Germany, Austria and Switzerland in the months ahead.