Enabling Technology Provides a Glimpse into the Future of Orthopedics

February 23, 2023 Enabling Technologies

Enabling technology is ushering in a new era in orthopedics and challenging the status quo. Innovations from large companies and startup firms change how surgeons operate and reimagine what’s possible in orthopedic procedures. Emerging platforms are poised to improve patient outcomes as increased surgeon acceptance drives widespread adoption.

Here’s a look at how the orthopedic industry will evolve with creative solutions coming to market — and how the technology will work in combination to spur continued advances in surgical care.

Guiding Surgeons to Better Outcomes

Robotic assistance and surgical navigation are not new concepts, but the capabilities of emerging platforms are catapulting them into the next level of patient care. Chris Walsh, Co-Founder and CEO of Accelus, expected robotics to be used in 30% to 50% of orthopedic procedures in the next five to 10 years.

Walsh said that the Remi Robotic Navigation System from Accelus is designed to help surgeons place pedicle screws during one-, two- and three-level lumbar spine fixations in a highly efficient manner — and with a minimal learning curve and no significant increase in operative times.

“The system is quick to set up and break down and is highly portable, allowing it to be used in multiple rooms and during multiple procedures in a given day,” Walsh said. “We believe robotics needs to be practical, reproducible and cost-effective.”

Zimmer Biomet’s ROSA robot brings objective measures of data to the table, a benefit that could inform surgeons on ways to improve how they operate. “Surgeons can quantify the various aspects of surgery,” said Liane Teplitsky, President of Global Robotics, Technology and Data Solutions at Zimmer Biomet. “They can assess cut angles or a joint’s intraoperative range of motion, and correlate this information to objective measures of outcomes data.”

By Heather Tunstall | BONEZONE

Image Credit: Exactech

About Peter Coffaro 504 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.