Meet Gwenael Hannema, Founder & CEO of OrthoSens

Tell us about OrthoSens
OrthoSens develops battery-free implantable sensors that turn standard orthopedic implants into smart, data-driven devices. Our solution provides real-time post-surgical insights to detect complications earlier and improve recovery outcomes through connected, data-driven care.

Please give some more details of your startup story.
After two startup failures, I founded OrthoSens driven by a personal mission—three close family members experienced difficult recoveries after orthopedic surgery. I wanted to eliminate those blind spots by making implants “talk” through real-time data. Today, I’m fortunate to lead a team with Oleg and Hossein, supported by life science experts like Philippe Etter (Medidee co-founder, successful exit), Kelly Carroll (former global product lead at Novartis), Juan Elices (former CEO of Bien-Air Surgery), and Prof. Alex Alfieri (Chairman of Neurosurgery at KSW). Together, we’re building battery-free implantable sensors and a digital platform that transforms existing orthopedic implants into smart, connected devices—enabling data-driven, personalized recovery for patients and care teams.

Tell us more about your plans for 2025 and what is your long-term vision.
In 2025, we plan to finalize the MVP of our spine sensor, gather feedback from surgeons and patients on our SensApp, file a second IP family, and secure funding to prepare for animal studies in early 2026. Our long-term goal is to improve 30,000 lives by 2030 by making real-time, data-driven recovery the new standard in orthopedic post-surgical care.

What has been the biggest success that you have achieved in your startup?
In just 14 months, we built a committed team, developed our battery-free sensor technology, integrated it into two functional proof-of-concept implants, and secured our first exploratory partnership with a €17M-revenue orthopedic SME—validating both our technology and market potential early on.

If you could do it all over again, what would you do differently? What are your biggest learnings?
If I could do it again, I’d start with solid founder agreements and bring experienced advisors on board sooner. My biggest learnings: test fast, ask for help, love the problem (not just your solution), and resolve tensions early. Two previous startup failures taught me resilience and adaptability.

What motivates you to continue your business every day?
The potential to positively impact 30,000 lives by 2030 is what drives me every day. Knowing our technology could help people recover faster, better, and with fewer complications motivates me—especially on the tough days.

One piece of advice for someone who is just starting out with their startup?
Don’t wait for perfect conditions—just start. You’ll make mistakes, and that’s okay. Stay resilient, ask for help, and move forward with purpose. As Mike Horn says, we have 30,000 days in our lives—make them count by pursuing what truly matters to you.

What does it mean to you to be a member of the Swiss Startup Association?
Being part of the Swiss Startup Association means connecting with like-minded founders, sharing hard-earned lessons to help others avoid pitfalls, and learning from those a few steps ahead. It’s a supportive community with a “sharing is caring” mindset that I fully embrace.

Would you recommend joining the Swiss Startup Association? Why?
Absolutely. The SSA creates real value—whether through access to resources, visibility, or genuine peer support. If you’re a founder looking to grow, give back, and stay connected to Switzerland’s startup ecosystem, it’s a no-brainer to join.

Have you ever visited the events of the Swiss Startup Association? If yes, which ones? Would you recommend them?
Yes, I’ve attended several online and two in-person events. I’m especially looking forward to one of their yearly highlights—Founders Day.

Connect with Gwenael on LinkedIn!

________________________________________________________

About the Swiss Startup Association

The Swiss Startup Association (SSA) is the umbrella organisation and the voice of Swiss startups. As a sector-independent non-profit organisation, the SSA gives startups a strong voice vis-à-vis politics, business, and works to improve the conditions for startups in Switzerland.
Beyond its political engagement, the SSA fosters a community for startups, recognizing the unique challenges they face. Through networking opportunities, educational sessions, and practical services, the SSA collaborates with industry partners to offer tailored support and valuable resources to guide founders on their entrepreneurial journey.

Join the Swiss Startup Association! Tap into our member benefits, the comprehensive Investor List and get full access to our events. By becoming an SSA Member you enjoy discounted tickets to our Big Founders Dinners and the SSA Founders Day.