Stryker, NuVasive, Globus forge on with surgical robots through COVID-19

November 7, 2020 COVID-19, Digital Surgery, Medical Devices, Orthopedics, Robotics

The pandemic hasn’t stopped orthopaedic and spine specialists from moving forward with robotic surgery products. In the second half of this week, Stryker, NuVasive and Globus Medical each reported Wall Street-beating earnings and revenue numbers and simultaneously shared updates on their pre-commercial and on-the market systems.

Stryker

For the second quarter in a row, Stryker bucked concerns that COVID-19’s financial strain on hospitals and health systems would preclude investments in robots.

Sales of its Mako robot, which can assist in knee and hip replacement procedures, grew 30% in the U.S. during the quarter. Stryker also passed the 1,000 worldwide installations mark for the product and saw its highest number of quarterly placements in ambulatory surgery centers to date. And in markets outside of the U.S., such as Europe and Japan, a second quarter pause in Mako momentum lifted, Stryker reported.

CEO Kevin Lobo expects Mako placements to further accelerate in the fourth quarter and the bold outlook is “really irrespective of competition,” the chief exec said. Stryker’s main robotics competitor for hip and knee replacements, Zimmer Biomet, will likely discuss progress with its Rosa robotic platform during its third-quarter earnings call next Friday, Nov. 6.

Lobo also addressed, but shared few details on, future applications for spine and shoulder procedures. When asked about spine, where Stryker also has technology from its acquisition last year of Mobius, Lobo said the company is actively working on an offering but is not yet ready to discuss it publicly. Likewise, Lobo declined to share a timeline or details on implants that will be used with the shoulder indication it’s making progress on.

By Maria Rachal | MEDTECH DIVE

Image Credit: Shutterstock

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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.