Mendaera’s Focalist Becomes First Butterfly Embedded Partner Technology to Launch
Mendaera and Butterfly Network have announced that Mendaera’s Focalist system is now commercially available with Butterfly Network’s Ultrasound-on-Chip imaging technology. The FDA-cleared Focalist system combines handheld robotics, real-time imaging, and intelligent guidance software to support precision, confidence, and consistency during image-guided needle procedures, including vascular access, regional nerve blocks, and organ access.
The collaboration was first announced through the Butterfly Embedded program, bringing together complementary imaging and robotics technologies to advance digitally native, AI-enabled intervention. The launch marks the first Butterfly Embedded partner technology to reach the market. Dr. Jacob Hutchins, an anesthesiologist based in Minneapolis, said one of Focalist’s strengths is the precision and control it provides across different procedures and clinical settings. Hutchins noted that expanding the ultrasound options available with the system makes the platform even more adaptable across specialties and use cases.
Josh DeFonzo, Co-Founder and CEO of Mendaera, said ultrasound is fundamental to how Focalist sees and guides intervention, and that Butterfly provides a uniquely digital and programmable imaging platform to build on. DeFonzo noted that bringing Butterfly into the company’s commercial platform expands access to precise, image-guided intervention today, while its software-defined architecture opens a path toward AI-enabled image interpretation and robotic action.
Joseph DeVivo, President, Chief Executive Officer, and Chairman of Butterfly Network, said Mendaera is tackling a real problem in healthcare with a platform designed to expand access to procedural imaging while reducing reliance on a limited group of highly specialized expertise. DeVivo noted that the milestone not only extends Butterfly’s commitment to democratizing medical imaging but also marks the first Butterfly Embedded partner to commercialize, bringing the company’s vision to life and demonstrating what Ultrasound-on-Chip can enable beyond traditional ultrasound.
