Smith & Nephew is turning its focus to robotics with a new acquisition and several product launches.
"Smith & Nephew is making a long-term commitment to bring together advanced technologies in robotics, digital surgery and machine learning as well as augmented reality to empower surgeons and improve clinical outcomes," said CEO Namal Nawana. "Over time these digital surgery and robotic assets will be deployed across all surgical specialties and healthcare settings where Smith & Nephew's operates, starting with orthopedic reconstruction and sports medicine."
Five key updates:
1. Smith & Nephew launched the Navio 7.0, the next generation handheld robotic system designed for knee replacements. The software does not have FDA clearance and isn't commercially available in the U.S., but the company plans to make it available in the second half of the year.
2. In late 2019, Smith & Nephew plans to complete its next generation surgical robotics platform and launch it in 2020. The platform is designed to reduce physical footprint and can incorporate into the company's sports medicine tower. Smith & Nephew also has CT-free technology that can expand its use into the ASC.
3. Smith & Nephew's research and development program aims to broaden its platform, potentially incorporating augmented reality, stand-alone robotic arms and machine learning technologies.
4. The company acquired Brainlab's orthopedic joint reconstruction business and plans to install Brainlab's software onto Navio 7.0. The two companies will also collaborate on other application development.
5. Smith & Nephew is opening a facility dedicated to research and development as well as medical education training for robotics. The new facility will be in Pittsburgh, where its robotics business is located.