The Changing World Around Orthopedic Implants

Those who have been in this industry for more than a few years realize implant technology has not changed all that much. Sure, there are new product releases offering innovative benefits not previously available. Further, emerging manufacturing technologies and advancements achieve new capabilities in terms of the equipment and machines fabricating the implants using better, more efficient methods (Get more on this topic in this month’s cover article, Technology Revision, on page 34). Overall, however, the form, function, and appearance of many orthopedic implants has remained relatively unchanged for quite some time.

In stark contrast to this, the products and technologies surrounding the implants are rapidly transforming. In some cases, the digital revolution is taking hold, with smart technologies being incorporated into rehabilitation devices. Elsewhere, surgeons are benefitting from the incorporation of robotic-based guidance systems. Further still, imaging technologies are improving and emitting less radiation, virtual and augmented reality systems are being used for training as well as during surgical procedures, and biologics have become a significant part of the orthopedic sector. While advances in implants remain relatively static, the dynamic changes in their supporting technologies are quite exciting.

To see many of these revolutionary solutions on display, one needs travel only as far as the location of the next American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons (AAOS) annual meeting (which will next be in Orlando, Fla., in March 2020). I attended this year’s event in Las Vegas and was pleased to see just how quickly certain “supporting” areas of the orthopedic industry were developing and embracing many of the aforementioned advanced technologies.

Reflexion Health was one of my first visits during this year’s event. The firm offers a virtual solution called VERA for at-home and onsite physical therapy, combining 3D motion capture technology with a game-like interface. VERA tracks a patient’s physical therapy routine, capturing information about range of motion and overall progress. This data is also shared with the patient’s physician, enhancing communication (and honesty) between the two parties. The system has been the subject of studies by both Duke and Yale that presented favorable assessments. In particular, one aspect of great interest to a variety of stakeholders is that the use of the system resulted in greater patient compliance. It also provides cost savings, which makes it quite beneficial in an industry moving to a value-based healthcare system and seeing greater incorporation of bundled payments.

By Sean Fenske | Orthopedic Design & Technology

Image Credit: Sean Fenske / Orthopedic Design & Technology

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About Peter Coffaro 474 Articles
A growth-driven and strategic executive, Peter Coffaro commands more than 25 years of progressive management success within the medical device industry. Recognized by the World Journal of Orthopedics, Exponential Healthtech, and MedReps.com as one of the top medical sales influencers in the industry; he has 10 years of combined sales management experience and has held positions as a Director, General Manager, Distributor, and Vice President. Peter has worked for some of the top orthopedic companies in the world - Zimmer, DePuy, and Stryker. He is also the founder of OrthoFeed: a popular blog that covers digital orthopedic news and emerging medical technologies. Peter is a three-time Hall of Fame award winner at Johnson and Johnson and has an extensive background in organizational development, business development, sales management, digital marketing, and professional education. Peter holds a B.S. degree in Biology and Chemistry from Northern Illinois University.

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