The American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons (AAOS) held its annual meeting during March 10-14 in San Diego, California. The event featured groundbreaking advancements in orthopedic surgery, robotics, and enabling technologies, with key product announcements from leading medical device companies.
- Stryker Unveils Fourth-Generation Mako Surgical Robot
Key Development: Stryker received the US Food and Drug Administration (FDA) clearance for the Mako surgical robot’s new hip revision feature, marking the first-ever authorization for a surgical robot to perform hip revision procedures. Additionally, the company announced the fourth generation of its Mako robot, expanding the robot’s capabilities in knee and spine procedures.
Frost Perspective:
- While hip revision procedures are relatively limited compared to hip replacements, the increasing adoption of robotics in knee and spine surgeries presents significant growth opportunities.
- Robotics continues to redefine orthopedic procedures by improving precision and reducing recovery times. In 2025, focus areas include minimally invasive techniques, cost-effective robotic solutions, and expanded applications in trauma surgery.
- The growing preference for ambulatory surgical centers (ASCs) necessitates more cost-effective robotic solutions. Companies must explore new business models such as leasing or fee-for-service arrangements to accelerate adoption in ASCs.
- Rising Orthopedic Procedure Volumes and the ASC Boom
Key Development: Stryker highlighted that orthopedic procedure volumes remain elevated, driven by demographic trends, increased activity levels, and a significant shift from hospitals to ASCs. The company expects orthopedic surgery schedules to remain fully booked for at least six months.
Frost Perspective:
- In 2024, orthopedic companies benefited from the surge in elective procedures, backlog clearance, and sustained demand for joint replacements—a trend expected to persist through 2025.
- ASCs will account for 40-60% of orthopedic surgeries within the next 2-3 years, presenting a lucrative opportunity for vendors.
- Leading players such as Stryker and Zimmer Biomet are proactively engaging with ASCs by offering tailored programs, financial models, and strategic partnerships to facilitate their adoption of new technologies.
- The Rise of Enabling Technologies in Orthopedic Surgery
Key Development: VISIE, a 3D spatial computing platform that enhances anatomical visualization, won the prestigious AAOS OrthoPitch 2025 Award. The award underscores the growing importance of enabling technologies in orthopedic surgery.
Frost Perspective:
- Continuous Anatomic Auto Tracking (CAAT) has the potential to revolutionize knee surgeries by enabling pin-less robotic procedures. Its ability to track anatomy in real-time without invasive markers could standardize robotic knee surgeries.
- If validated and approved by regulatory bodies like the FDA, CAAT could see widespread adoption among surgeons who prioritize reduced patient trauma and streamlined operating room (OR) workflows.
- Beyond knee procedures, CAAT’s applications could extend to spine, cranial, and neurosurgical procedures, improving precision in spinal fusion surgeries and robotic screw placement.
- The integration of CAAT with AI-powered predictive analytics could further refine implant placement, leading to enhanced surgical outcomes, particularly for complex cases involving severe deformities.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Orthopedic Innovation
The AAOS 2025 Annual Meeting underscored the transformative role of robotics, ASCs, and enabling technologies in shaping the future of orthopedic surgery. Key focus areas include:
- Short-term (1 year): Expansion of AI-driven workflow automation and increased ASC adoption of robotic-assisted surgeries.
- Mid-term (2-3 years): Integration of next-generation robotic platforms with real-time tracking technologies like CAAT.
- Long-term (5+ years): Widespread regulatory approval and adoption of AI-powered surgical planning tools to enhance precision and patient outcomes.
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