Direava's Revolutionary Journey in Surgical AI Development
Direava Inc., headquartered in Chiyoda, Tokyo and led by CEO Yuji Takeuchi, has exciting news: it has been selected for the third phase of the "Generative AI Accelerator Challenge" (GENIAC), a project backed by Japan's Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, and the New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO). The main focus of this initiative is the development of an integrated AI model that aids in surgical procedures through visual and linguistic capabilities.
A New Era in Surgical Decision-Making
The selected project by Direava aims to improve decision-making during surgical operations. By harnessing advanced AI navigation technology, the company is working towards implementing solutions that provide feedback during high-risk procedures. The new AI model they are developing will be capable of recognizing anatomical structures and surgical conditions from real-time images, thus generating accurate Japanese descriptions automatically. This groundbreaking integration of vision and language is expected to support surgeons in making better judgments and responding appropriately during surgeries.
More than just assisting during operations, this technology is designed to meet a range of needs, including surgical education and procedure evaluation, positioning it as a core system in the field of surgical assistance.
Through this endeavor, Direava aims to apply generative AI technology in surgical medical settings, significantly enhancing safety and quality across all surgical procedures.
Understanding GENIAC
GENIAC, also known as the Generative AI Accelerator Challenge, is a nationwide project collaboratively promoted by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry, and NEDO, with the aim of strengthening foundation technologies related to generative AI in Japan.
By providing substantial computing resources (GPU) and support for the societal implementation of generative AI technologies, GENIAC strives to cultivate a domestic AI ecosystem. Since the first phase began in February 2024, with the second phase commencing in October 2024, Direava’s project was selected in the third phase that began in March 2025.
The Vision Behind Direava
Founded by active surgeons, Direava is a startup committed to reducing surgical complications through AI technology tailored to the surgeon's perspective. Currently partnering with over 40 institutions, including Keio University, the company is vigorously advancing product development.
By accelerating the societal implementation of "AI × Surgery," Direava is dedicated to improving safety and quality in all types of surgeries. This commitment underscores the importance of integrating advanced technology into the medical field, thereby fostering better patient outcomes.
Join the Journey With Direava
Direava is currently seeking talented individuals to join their mission of transforming the future of surgery through AI. They invite those who resonate with this vision to face the challenges in healthcare head-on, delivering “truly valuable technologies” for both doctors and patients. The company emphasizes collaboration beyond the boundaries between technology, clinical practice, and business, seeking team members who are persistent in tackling difficult challenges and committed to seeing projects through to the end.
If you aspire to be at the forefront of technology that is changing the healthcare landscape, Direava welcomes you to be part of their team. They are actively recruiting for positions such as AI engineers and sales representatives.
For inquiries, please reach out to info@direava.com or visit their website at
Direava.