Stryker unveiled its updated Mako surgical robot at the meeting, and orthopedic companies expect procedure volumes to remain steady despite recession fears.
Orthopedic device companies gathered last week in San Diego to demonstrate their latest innovations and discuss industry trends at the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons’ annual meeting.
Robotic surgery systems remained a focus at the event, with Stryker showcasing the newest version of its Mako surgical robot and Johnson & Johnson displaying a feature that was cleared for its Velys robot last year, allowing it to be used for partial knee replacements.
Company executives also discussed economic trends, expecting procedure volumes and hospital equipment purchases to remain steady despite financial pressures.
Here are four takeaways from the event:
1. Stryker launches hip revision feature for Mako
Stryker received clearance for its Mako surgical robot to be used in hip revision procedures, when a worn or failing implant is replaced with a new one. It’s the first revision feature authorized by the Food and Drug Administration for a surgical robot. The company received 510(k) clearance on March 5, according to an FDA database entry.
The application is intended to help with challenging procedures with features such as screw planning and screw trajectory guidance during an operation, Stryker said in a statement.
The company also announced the fourth generation of its Mako surgical robot, which can be used for knee and spine procedures.
by Elise Reuter | MEDTECHDIVE
Image Credit: Stryker
I have a love hate relationship with mako. At first, I was like give me a good ole fashioned TKA or THA. But now, I’m growing to love it!