Innovation Highlighted at World’s Largest Orthopedic Meeting

Innovation, a major initiative area of OrthoWorx, was prominently featured by orthopedic companies at the 2013 American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons meeting held in Chicago, March 18-23.

Over 31,000 surgeons and life sciences professionals attending the annual meeting were treated to a showcase of technological advancements ranging from innovative early stage treatments to robotic surgery.

The greatest buzz on the floor surrounded new knee systems being introduced including new offerings from Warsaw-based companies. Through interactive experience-based displays, surgeons engaged with the new knee systems from design concept to surgical application.

Orthopedic companies are continuing to develop better fit and function for patients along with simplified instruments to benefit the surgeon and to promote greater efficiency in the operating room. Also featured were materials like anti-oxidant or vitamin-E infused polyethylenes, used in many of these new knee systems, which show promise in benefiting patients through improved wear and implant longevity. And while patient specific knee instruments continued to garner attention, new patient specific knees made for individual patients piqued surgeon interest.

Advancements in instruments were highlighted that are changing the way many orthopedic surgeons practice, including robotics and smart instruments. AAOS attendees could be seen donning lab coats and “test driving” robotic surgery systems designed to improve the accuracy of implant alignment. These robotic systems included those using a guided robotic arm to handheld devices.

Smart instruments incorporating microchip technology were also available for hands-on examination. These devices assist in implant placement and help surgeons balance soft tissues surrounding the joints during surgery. In the future, this same microchip technology may be incorporated into the actual implants, providing healthcare professionals with valuable feedback on post-surgery performance.

Companies of all sizes are introducing new products and technologies designed to improve the lives of patients. Surgical instruments and techniques are being perfected to assist the surgeon in treating patients and to help reduce the cost of overall care. And, research and development efforts strive to ensure more technologies for advancing orthopedic patient care are in the future.