Using Private Capital to Preserve Control: Interview with SynerFuse CEO Justin Zenanko
From Medsider: Learn from Medtech and Healthtech Founders and CEOs by Scott Nelson
February 10, 2026 · 57 min
About this episode
In this episode, Justin Zenanko discusses using private capital to maintain control in medtech fundraising.
In this episode of Medsider Radio , we sat down with Justin Zenanko , co-founder & CEO of SynerFuse . SynerFuse is developing the e-TLIF procedure, which combines spinal fusion with neuromodulation by placing leads directly at exposed nerves during surgery. A certified public accountant and serial entrepreneur, Justin previously served as CFO and senior vice president of corporate development at Recombinetics, where he led fundraising efforts totaling $68 million. In this interview, Justin discusses approaching FDA interactions as negotiations, validating procedures with off-the-shelf components before investing in custom devices, and structuring private raises through investment banks to preserve control while delaying institutional venture capital. Before we dive into the discussion, I wanted to mention a few things: First, if you’re into learning from medical device founders and CEOs, and want to know when new interviews are live, head over to Medsider.com and sign up for our free newsletter. And if you’re ready to level up your medtech game, you should check out Medsider Courses — 8-week masterclasses covering topics like fundraising, M&A and exit planning, design and…
People in this episode
Host: Scott Nelson
Guest: Justin Zenanko
Topics covered
- private capital
- medtech
- healthtech
- fundraising
- FDA interactions
- spinal fusion
- entrepreneurship
Keywords
- private capital
- medtech
- fundraising
- FDA
- spinal fusion
- entrepreneurship
- SynerFuse
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: SynerFuse, Recombinetics
Products: e-TLIF procedure
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