2018 Top 10 Global Orthopedic Device Firms

August 16, 2018 Medical Devices, Medical Technology, Orthopedics, Rankings, Robotics

Robotics and leadership changes defined the 2017 fiscal year among the largest orthopedic firms.

The use of robotics in orthopedic surgery is finally beginning to gain momentum, and the orthopedic elites have taken notice. As well they should, considering upgrading to a robotic solution can provide advanced surgical planning, precision machining of bone, improved implant-bone contact, implant placement optimization, and vastly improved mechanical alignment.

In perhaps last year’s most highly anticipated rollout, Stryker Corp. revealed its Mako robotic arm could be used to implant the company’s Triathlon knee, giving the system the ability to assist in total knee, hip, and partial knee replacements. Though it is unclear whether Verb Surgical—the long-heralded J&J-Verily robotic surgery venture—will pursue orthopedic applications, DePuy Synthes will undoubtedly be interested to see its potential. Smith & Nephew’s Navio platform was also expanded last year to support its Journey II, Legion Primary, and Genesis II total knee arthroplasty systems. Medtronic, meanwhile, began a three-tiered investment agreement that established a 15 percent stake in surgical robotics firm Mazor Robotics during its 2017 fiscal year to back the Mazor X robotic guidance system for spinal surgery. Globus Medical also launched its Excelsius GPS last year, a versatile robotic guidance and navigation system that supports minimally invasive and open orthopedic and neurosurgical procedures.

Last year also witnessed some chief executive shuffling within the Top 10. David Dvorak left Zimmer Biomet after 10 years at the helm, passing the buck to former Medtronic executive Bryan Hanson. Inciting further rumors of a takeover, Namal Nawana—mastermind behind the Abbott-Alere union—replaced Smith & Nephew’s Olivier Bohuon, who retired after seven years of leadership. Finally, Globus Medical promoted former president and COO David Demski to CEO last year to replace founder and chairman David C. Paul.

By ODT Staff | Orthopedic Design & Technology

Image Credit: ODT

We hope you enjoy reading this year’s Top 10 report.

About Peter Coffaro 605 Articles

A growth-driven and strategic executive, Peter Coffaro commands more than 20 years of progressive management success within the medical device industry. As a District Sales Manager for Stryker Orthopaedics, Peter was responsible for managing and directing a regional sales force to achieve sales and profit goals within the Rocky Mountain region. Previously, he was the Director of Sales & Marketing for Amp Orthopedics. In this role, Peter was responsible for planning, developing, and leading all sales and marketing initiatives. Peter is a former orthopedic distributor in the Pacific Northwest. He has also worked with DePuy Orthopaedics as well as Zimmer, and held positions in sales, sales training, and sales management. Peter has an extensive background in organizational development, business development, sales management, negotiating and P&L management. Peter holds a B.S. degree in Biology from Northern Illinois University.