Irish medtech company SymPhysis Medical has been shortlisted in the Innovation in Healthcare and Medicine category at the Irish Healthcare Awards 2025.

The company’s pioneering drainage device, releaze™, is designed for patients living with malignant pleural effusion (MPE), a painful and distressing complication of late-stage cancer.

Developed through the BioInnovate Ireland Fellowship Programme at the University of Galway and manufactured in Letterkenny, releaze™ allows patients to manage MPE comfortably at home, restoring dignity, comfort, and independence while easing pressure on overstretched hospital services.

MPE affects over half a million people in the US and Europe each year and drives an estimated €5 billion in healthcare costs annually in Europe alone. Current technology is more than 20 years old. Releaze™ combines an intuitive, discreet design with smart sensor technology and a companion app to make care easier, safer, and more humane.

“This recognition reflects the dedication of our team, our clinical partners, investors, and the patients and carers who have shared their experiences so others can benefit in the future,” said Tim Jones, CEO and Co-Founder of SymPhysis Medical.

The winners of the Irish Healthcare Awards will be announced on 4 November 2025.

SymPhysis Medical is currently inviting public investment through Spark Crowdfunding to support its final steps toward launch. Further details are available here: www.sparkcrowdfunding.com/campaign.php/symphysismedical