Altura Medical lands $20M in VC

California-based Altura Medical has rounded up $20 million in Series A financing. The early-stage manufacturer is developing devices and methods for the treatment of abdominal aortic aneurysms, a condition that affects about 4.5 million patients worldwide. Altura says its methods are less invasive than traditional treatment, with reduced recovery times and improved survival rates. New Leaf Venture Partners led the financing, joined by new investor Advanced Technology Ventures, and existing investor SV Life Sciences.

"We are very pleased with this financing, which demonstrates a high level of investor confidence in the Altura opportunity and is an endorsement for Altura Medical's core technology," says George Wallace, acting president and CEO.

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ALSO: SynapDx, a provider of diagnostic testing for the early detection of autism, has raised $9 million in Series A funding. SynapDx release

AND: Switzerland-based NanoPowers announced the closing of a $4.5 million Series A round of financing. The medical device maker is using its artificial muscle technology to restore or improve muscle function. NanoPowers release

PLUS: Pathfinder Therapeutics has closed a $4 million Series B financing round co-led by TriStar Technology Fund and Limestone Fund. The Nashville, TN-based company will use the funding for development, clinical validation and FDA clearance of the Explorer system, a GPS system for the abdomen. Pathfinder release