US-based medical device company Zimmer Biomet has agreed to acquire OrthoGrid Systems, a company developing AI-powered surgical guidance systems for total hip replacement.
The acquisition includes Hip AI, OrthoGrid’s AI-powered, fluoroscopy-based surgical assistance platform, along with two additional FDA-approved orthopaedic applications, and more than 40 patients.
The transaction is expected to be completed by the end of the fourth quarter of this year (Q4 2024), subject to certain customary closing conditions.
Zimmer Biomet said the proposed acquisition will expand its hip portfolio with AI-driven surgical guidance system.
Recon president and Zimmer Biomet global headquarters executive director Jim Lancaster said: “OrthoGrid’s AI systems address the rapidly growing market demand for fluoroscopy-based surgical guidance solutions while strengthening our portfolio of hip offerings that drive intraoperative efficiencies and improve the quality of life for patients.
“We pride ourselves on being customer-centric and Hip AI exemplifies our commitment to offer solutions that meet the specific needs of each surgeon.”
According to Zimmer Biomet, surgical guidance systems often depend on CT imaging, resulting in a backlog of CT exams and would impact operating room (OR) workflow and efficiency.
In contrast, the fluoroscopy-based surgical guidance technique uses real-time X-ray imaging to help guide procedures and improve surgical accuracy and safety.
Unlike CT scans, fluoroscopy-based systems don’t need preoperative preparation, allow real-time navigation with up-to-date images, and provide bedside access to motion imaging.
OrthoGrid’s Hip AI system provides real-time image analysis, automated measurements of leg length and offset, and guidance on optimal cup placement.
In addition, the system maintains a small operating room (OR) footprint and allows surgeons to customise it according to their specific technique and workflow.
OrthoGrid co-founder and co-CEO Edouard Saget said: “The agreement with Zimmer Biomet, a global leader in orthopaedics, will significantly accelerate our shared goal of addressing challenging orthopaedic problems with innovative technology solutions.”
OrthoGrid co-founder and co-CEO Richard Boddington said: “While early, the launch of our AI-driven intraoperative surgical guidance platform has received positive feedback from hip surgeons across the U.S. and we are excited to expand our reach through this acquisition.”
In June this year, orthopaedic surgical robots company THINK Surgical signed a limited exclusive distribution and supply agreement with Zimmer Biomet.
