Orca Surgical

Company Overview

Snapshot

Founded in January 2012 by Yariv Bar On, Orca Surgical operates with 1–10 employees. The company focuses on developing solutions for refractive ophthalmologic surgery. A significant milestone for the company was the resolution of a patent dispute in January 2026, which concluded a two-year legal battle.

Business overview

Orca Surgical develops advanced solutions for refractive surgery, keratoconus, refractive enhancement, and recurrent corneal erosions. Its core technology centers around the Epi-Bowmans Keratectomy (EBK) procedure, which utilizes the Epi Clear device, a single-use polymer epikeratome. This device precisely removes the epithelium without damaging Bowman's layer, aiming to expedite patient recovery and reduce pain during epithelial healing. The company's products are Class 1 exempt, CE and AMAR approved, and target the ophthalmology market, serving surgeons, clinics, and hospitals within the Medical Devices and Medical Treatment & Therapeutics sectors.

Strategic signal

In January 2026, Orca Surgical concluded a two-year patent dispute with Wiz, agreeing to dismiss all claims and counterclaims. This resolution is a positive signal for investors, indicating the removal of a significant legal overhang that could have impacted the company's operational focus and market perception. The conclusion of this legal battle allows Orca Surgical to fully concentrate on its core business and product development without the distraction and cost of ongoing litigation.

Company Intelligence Q&A

What is Orca Surgical's primary product offering?

Orca Surgical's primary product is the Epi Clear epikeratome, which is central to its Epi-Bowmans Keratectomy (EBK) procedure. This device is designed for precise epithelium removal in refractive ophthalmologic surgery, aiming to improve patient outcomes and recovery times.

What was the outcome of the patent dispute involving Orca Surgical?

In January 2026, Orca Surgical concluded a two-year patent dispute by agreeing with Wiz to dismiss all claims and counterclaims with prejudice. This resolution prevents future litigation on the same issues, following a series of setbacks for Orca at the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office where several of its patents were invalidated.

How does Orca Surgical's Epi-Bowman Keratectomy (EBK) procedure benefit patients?

A pilot study in November 2017 indicated that patients undergoing Orca Surgical's Epi-Bowman Keratectomy using the Epi Clear device experienced less pain and faster epithelial recovery compared to those who underwent laser scrape. The technique also demonstrated clinical outcomes comparable to LASIK.

When did Orca Surgical introduce its Epi Clear device to the market?

Orca Surgical's Epi Clear epikeratome was commercially available by September 2016. The device and its associated EBK procedure aim to standardize epithelium removal for improved refractive outcomes in ophthalmic surgery.

What is the strategic focus of Orca Surgical's Epi Clear device?

Orca Surgical is aggressively pursuing the ophthalmic laser surgery market with its Epi Clear device, which was introduced by November 2015. The device aims to provide a safer and less painful alternative for removing the corneal epithelium, potentially changing existing surgical procedures.