Direava develops surgical AI to help address Japan’s surgeon shortage

Tokyo-based AI startup Direava is developing surgical support technology through Japan’s government-backed GENIAC programme, an initiative led by the Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) and the New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO). The company is training generative AI models using surgical video and clinical data to provide real-time assistance in the operating theatre.

The project reflects growing concern in Japan over a looming shortage of surgeons. As the country’s population ages and demand for complex procedures rises, healthcare leaders are exploring how AI can help improve efficiency, support clinical decision-making and preserve specialist expertise. Technologies such as Direava’s could also help train younger surgeons by making expert knowledge more accessible during procedures.

Direava’s participation in the GENIAC programme places it among a select group of companies developing next-generation AI technologies with support from the Japanese government, which has identified artificial intelligence as a strategic priority for economic growth and healthcare innovation.