3 Trends That Are Disrupting the Total Knee Replacement Market in 2020

January 18, 2020 Depuy Synthes, Digital Surgery, Joint Replacement, Medical Devices, Orthopedics, Outpatient Surgery, Robotics

Big changes lie ahead for knee replacements in 2020 and beyond. MD+DI recently spoke with an expert at DePuy Synthes for insight into how three key trends are impacting the market.

In recent years MD+DI has reported on a number of ways emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML), surgical robotics, and 3D-printing are impacting a number of different sectors in medtech. In 2020, we expect these technologies to become even more releavant in the industry, particularly in orthoedics.

MD+DI recently spoke with an expert at DePuy Synthes for insight into how key trends are impacting the total knee replacement (TKR) market, and how emerging technologies can be part of the solution. Rajit Kamal is vice president and global franchise leader of the knee business at Warsaw, IN-based DePuy Synthes, a Johnson & Johnson company.

Outpatient Is No Longer Just a Niche

“We are seeing a very persistent shift toward outpatient or ambulatory surgical care centers and we think that shift makes sense, Kamal said, pointing out several benefits of this trend, including faster recovery and a lower cost of care.

“We think anything that makes sense for the patients clinically and economically is the right thing to do,” he said.

While outpatient will never be right for every patient, Kamal said up to 70% of TKRs could eventually be handled in outpatient settings such as ambulatory surgical centers (ASCs).

“Outpatient is not a niche,” Kamal emphasized. “Outpatient is the site of care of the patient. So when we develop our portfolio, when we drive innovation, it is with outpatient in mind.”

What that means from an R&D perspective is that companies in the TKR space like Depuy Synthes need to keep in mind the fact that ASCs are smaller than in-patient hospital settings.

“We are making sure we are developing the portfolio that is enabling our customers to be able to operate in this site of care and that means developing products that are portable, smaller, and cost effective,” Kamal said.

Kamal sees opportunities to address these and other unmet TKR needs with emerging technology such as AI, ML, robotics, and 3D printing.

By Amanda Pedersen | MD+DI

Image Credit: The New York Times

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About Peter Coffaro 506 Articles

Peter Coffaro is a growth-driven and strategic executive with over 25 years of progressive management success in the medical device industry. With a proven track record and recognized expertise, Peter has established himself as one of the top influencers in medical sales, as acknowledged by prestigious publications such as the World Journal of Orthopedics, Exponential Healthtech, and MedReps.com. Throughout his career, Peter has accumulated 10 years of combined sales management experience, excelling in various roles including Director, General Manager, Distributor, and Vice President. He has worked for industry-leading orthopedic companies such as Zimmer, DePuy, and Stryker, solidifying his deep knowledge and network within the field. Peter’s passion for innovation and emerging technologies led him to found OrthoFeed, an award-winning blog covering digital orthopedic news and emerging medical technologies. Through this platform, he stays at the forefront of the industry and contributes to the dissemination of valuable insights. Peter is a three-time Hall of Fame award winner at Johnson and Johnson, demonstrating his exceptional contributions and impact on the organization. His expertise extends to areas such as organizational development, business development, sales management, digital marketing, and professional education. Peter earned a B.S. degree in Biology and Chemistry from Northern Illinois University, further complementing his comprehensive understanding of the medical field. With his wealth of experience, strategic mindset, and dedication to advancing healthcare, Peter Coffaro is a valuable asset and leader in the medical device industry.