Inside the Oxford startup that is taking the guesswork out of the operating room.

Dr. Katerina Spranger, the founder of Oxford Heartbeat, has become one of the most influential figures in European DeepTech in 2026. Her software, PreSize, uses AI to help surgeons plan complex stent procedures with “Sub-Millimeter” accuracy, significantly reducing the risk of complications.

The “Sovereign AI” in Medicine

Spranger’s work is a cornerstone of the Vertical AI movement. Unlike generic AI, her models are trained on specific, high-resolution medical imaging data.

• The Impact: In 2026, PreSize is being used in major hospitals across the UK and Germany. It allows a surgeon to “practice” a surgery in a digital twin environment before making a single incision.
• The Global Founder Story: As a founder with roots in Ukraine and the UK, Spranger embodies the “Cross-Border Talent” trend. She has built a diverse team that bridges the gap between academic research and clinical application.

Scaling DeepTech

For entrepreneurs, Spranger is a role model for Regulatory Patience. In the medical field, there are no shortcuts. She spent years securing certifications, proving that in 2026, the most valuable startups are those that have built a “Moat” through rigorous scientific validation and regulatory compliance.