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Latest Mako Tech Fleshes Out Stryker's Robotic Joint Replacement Line But Cost Critics Still There

 
• By Marion Webb

Stryker launched the Mako robotic arm-assisted total knee arthroplasty system at last week's AAOS annual meeting, making the company the first to offer a surgical robotic technology that covers the total knee, partial knee and total hip replacements. Critics, however, say the clinical outcomes do not necessarily justify the costs. Meanwhile, Stryker's orthopedic rivals, Zimmer Biomet and Smith & Nephew, also sought to highlight their own robotic offerings.

xray left knee and show pre-post operation total knee replacement

Uptake of Stryker Corp.'s recently launched Mako system for performing total knee replacements – the third approved application of the robotic arm – is expected to be quick due to the need for technology that can improve clinical outcomes in this procedure. However, the company would have to spend resources generating more clinical data to convince skeptics that the cost of a robotic-assisted system justifies the advantages such a technology could offer.

Stryker officially introduced the Mako total knee system to much fanfare on Mar. 16, at the Annual Meeting of the American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons (AAOS 2017) in San Diego

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Consumer Healthtech Investment Totaled $4.5BN In 2024, But Bar Is High Amid Economic Uncertainty

 
• By Marion Webb

Global investment in consumer healthtech increased by 9% year-over-year in 2024, totaling $4.5bn, with significant interest in mental health solutions, according to Galen Growth. While the first quarter of 2025 saw raised confidence and investments, the Trump administration’s new tariffs and sweeping changes to healthcare have introduced new uncertainties.

FDA And Boston Scientific Face Legal Action Over Spinal Device Safety

 
• By Elizabeth Orr

A patient, Dena Lawler, is suing Boston Scientific and the US FDA over alleged harm from a spinal stimulator device. Lawler claims inadequate regulatory review allowed dangerous modifications to the device, which then caused her pain and other health issues. She is calling for reconsideration of the device approvals.

AAOS 2025 Orthopedic Roundup: J&J Velys UKA, Stryker Mako 4, Materialise, Canary Medical

 
• By Marion Webb

At AAOS, orthopedics players showcased their latest robotic-assisted platforms, power tools, 3D printed technologies and software offerings. This article brings you highlights from interviews Medtech Insight conducted on site with representatives from J&J, Stryker, Materialise and Canary Medical.

Enovis Appoints Damien McDonald CEO, Reaffirms Q1 Guidance Amid Strategic Growth Push

 
• By Marion Webb

Enovis has named veteran medtech leader Damien McDonald as its new CEO effective 12 May as the orthopedic company reaffirms first-quarter 2025 revenue guidance of between $555m and $563m. Medtech Insight spoke with Tim Czartoski, Enovis’ president of US surgical and global product and enabling technologies, about the firm’s growth strategy and innovation plans.

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