HeroSupport Partners With Swiss Medical Network
Share this article
HeroSupport, a HUG spin-off founded in 2022 by medical physicist Giovanna Dipasquale, is redefining breast cancer treatment with its 3D-printed, custom-made shells designed to improve the precision and comfort of radiotherapy. The Geneva-based startup has just announced a strategic partnership with Swiss Medical Network, a major milestone in its mission to enhance cancer care.
A Custom Shell for Every Patient
At the core of HeroSupport’s innovation is a 3D-printed shell tailored to each individual patient. Using a patented “Imaging Table,” a detailed surface scan captures the precise anatomy of the breast. The resulting shell, produced specifically for the patient, ensures optimal stability and reproducibility across every radiotherapy session.
Placed in a prone position on the radiotherapy table, the shell enables precise breast positioning—maximizing treatment accuracy while minimizing exposure to healthy organs such as the heart and lungs. This significantly reduces the risk of collateral damage and secondary complications.
Beyond the technical impact, this personalized approach also brings physical and psychological comfort, addressing a critical, often overlooked, dimension of cancer treatment.
“We’re not only improving clinical outcomes—we’re restoring dignity and comfort for patients during an emotionally difficult time,” explains Dipasquale.
Fewer Sessions, Greater Efficiency
Traditional radiotherapy protocols require between 15 and 25 sessions. HeroSupport’s technology enables a dramatic reduction to as few as five sessions, compressing treatment into a single week. This accelerated protocol enhances therapeutic efficacy while freeing up clinical resources and reducing patient burden.
Lower Costs, Lower Risks
The benefits of HeroSupport extend well beyond the treatment room:
- Lower healthcare costs for hospitals and insurers due to fewer sessions.
- Reduced risk of radiotherapy-induced complications, including secondary cancers and dermatitis.
- Enhanced patient privacy and comfort—many patients report relief at no longer having their breasts exposed during treatment.
These improvements contribute to higher patient satisfaction, greater treatment adherence, and potentially better outcomes.
An Inspiring Journey of Growth
HeroSupport’s progress has been backed by several prestigious awards and grants:
-
- VentureKick Award – CHF 150,000 (2023)
- Strategis Prize – CHF 50,000 (2024)
- FONGIT FIF Fund – CHF 100,000
- Initial investments from KICK FUND
- Startup Innovation Project Grant from Innosuisse (2024)
A Strategic Partnership for Impact
The collaboration with Swiss Medical Network marks a major step forward. Known for its cutting-edge oncology platforms and patient-centered care, Swiss Medical Network includes premier facilities such as Clinique de Genolier and Clinique Générale Beaulieu in Geneva.
“By joining forces with Swiss Medical Network, we are combining our innovative technologies with their extensive medical expertise to revolutionize care in radiation therapy,” says Dipasquale.
Together, they aim to integrate HeroSupport’s advanced immobilization solution across multiple oncology centers—bringing precision, compassion, and innovation to patients across Switzerland.
➡️ Source: HeroSupport. | 📸 HeroSupport Team. LtoR: Johan Ulterwijk, Pauline Guillemin, Laurence Zulianello, Giovanna Dipasquale – CEO and Founder, Madeleine van Niekerk, Michael Sandhu.