The realm of orthopedic surgery is undergoing a significant transformation, thanks to the advent of 3D-printed implants and robotic-assisted surgery. These innovations are not just futuristic concepts but are making substantial impacts on surgical precision, patient comfort, and recovery times. Let’s dive into these groundbreaking advancements and explore the insights from a recent survey conducted at the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) 2024 Annual Meeting.
Custom Comfort with 3D-Printed Orthopedic Implants
Since 2010, the orthopedic sector has embraced Additive Manufacturing (AM), particularly laser powder bed fusion (LPBF), to revolutionize patient care (1). This shift was primarily driven by the quest to enhance osseointegration, thereby increasing the likelihood of patient survival and comfort. Traditional manufacturing methods often led to a one-size-fits-all scenario, much like standard shoe sizes, which sometimes resulted in patients undergoing painful procedures to accommodate these standardized implants.
However, the dawn of AM technology has allowed for the creation of custom-tailored implants based on individual anatomical data. This bespoke approach ensures a perfect fit, significantly enhancing patient comfort, expediting the healing process, and ultimately improving postoperative quality of life. Moreover, the inherent flexibility of AM technology facilitates the production of implants with complex internal structures, potentially outperforming those made through traditional methods in strength, weight, and durability.
The Precision of Robotic-Assisted Surgery
Orthopedic surgery stands at the forefront of adopting robotic technology, promising unparalleled precision in surgical procedures. In March 2017, Stryker announced the commercial launch of the robotic-arm-assisted total knee arthroplasty application for use with its Mako™ System. The Mako System currently offers three applications supporting Partial Knee, Total Hip and Total Knee procedures. With several other companies developing robotic-assisted devices, there’s no doubt that each system will boast unique methodologies, necessitating independent assessment and reporting.
The precision afforded by robotic assistance is anticipated to enhance implant longevity, thanks to improved alignment. This evolution might necessitate a reevaluation of what constitutes a clinically significant change, considering the potential benefits. The integration of artificial intelligence could further refine this approach, allowing surgeons to achieve both precision and accuracy by tailoring interventions to individual patient factors and native joint alignment.
Insights from AAOS 2024: Surgeons’ Perspectives
At the AAOS 2024, we conducted an extensive survey, garnering insights from over 150 surgeons across 32 countries regarding their preferences towards 3D-printed orthopedic implants and robotic-assisted surgery. The survey revealed a cautious but growing interest in these technologies. While traditional surgical methods remain preferred for a variety of procedures, there’s an openness towards employing robotics and computer-assisted navigation, particularly for spinal surgeries.
Notably, Stryker emerged as the preferred manufacturer for 3D-printed orthopedic implants in total knee arthroplasty (TKA) and above-knee amputation (AKA) procedures, while Zimmer Biomet was favored for shoulder arthroplasty. Additionally, a significant majority of physicians advocated for 3D-printed implants to become the standard of care in TKA, AKA, hip arthroplasty, and shoulder arthroplasty procedures.
Conclusion: The Future of Orthopedic Surgery
The convergence of 3D-printing and robotic-assisted surgery in orthopedics represents a paradigm shift towards personalized and precision medicine. The insights from our survey at AAOS 2024 underscore the growing acceptance and preference for these technologies among surgeons worldwide.
Our latest survey is now available for purchase, containing imperative insights into specific robotic preferences broken out by surgeons across different geographies. This data is invaluable for medical professionals and industry stakeholders aiming to stay at the forefront of orthopedic innovation. Reach-out to us today if you would like to discuss our latest survey in greater detail.
References:
1. Rajasekaran, M. (2023, March 10). How 3D printing is impacting the Orthopedic Industry. Orthopedic Design Technology. https://www.odtmag.com/issues/2023-03-01/view_columns/how-3d-printing-is-impacting-the-orthopedic-industry/
2. Clement, N. (2024, February 15). The Robotic Revolution: The Future of Orthopaedic Surgery . British Orthopaedic Association . https://www.boa.ac.uk/resource/the-robotic-revolution-the-future-of-orthopaedic-surgery.html#:~:text=In%20conclusion%2C%20adoption%20of%20robotic,significant%20benefit%20is%20not%20clear.
