There’s been a surge of orthopedic technology innovation across the country. You may be wondering which tools are available to optimize your practice’s quality care and communication for patients and which may become accessible in the near future.
With this article, you can eliminate the guesswork and learn about seven technology trends poised to shape the 2024 orthopedic landscape.
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Why Should Your Orthopedic Practice Follow Technology Trends?
While some of the latest trends in orthopedic technology may seem like ideas out of a sci-fi movie, keeping up with new innovations can prepare you for when new technologies become available. Additionally, you may discover new orthopedic technologies that you can access today!
Let’s explore our top 7 exciting orthopedic technology trends.
1: Deep Learning and Generative AI
Artificial intelligence augmentation is nothing new in healthcare, though its applications and impact expanded dramatically in recent years. This high-value technology enhances medical imaging, streamlines disease diagnostics, and recommends custom treatment plans.
Deep learning and generative AI became a prominent goal in orthopedics in the mid-2010s, powered by increasing computational capabilities and access to large datasets.
While it’s important to note that generative AI gained a controversial image in certain industries, several studies suggest that programs like Chatgpt test at a performance comparable to that of a first-year orthopedic surgery resident.
Another notable use of AI in orthopedic technology is Aidoc, a healthcare solution that automates analysis to detect fractures in radiographic images in under 30 minutes.
Experts predict deep learning and GenAI technologies will mature and move from early adoption into full clinical integration in the next five to ten years.
2: Augmented Reality (AR)
Augmented Reality (AR) started as a military tool designed to bridge the gap between the digital and physical world through visual enhancement. Today, AR has a significant potential to amplify patient care and education in orthopedic surgery.
Recently, companies like Augmedics developed the first AR-powered surgical navigation system to display 3D spinal anatomy during surgery. This orthopedic technology gives surgeons real-time guidance with nearly 100% accuracy. They can interact with X-rays and CT scans in 3D rather than just eyeballing the surgical site.
Moreover, AR is a practical tool to educate patients by creating interactive simulations of their condition or planned surgeries. This approach helps them better understand their treatment and reduces post-surgery anxiety.
As AR technology evolves, its applications will expand across various orthopedic subspecialties, delivering unparalleled precision and efficiency.
3: Computer-Assisted Surgery (CAS)
Computer-assisted surgery (CAS) is another piece of orthopedic technology that uses computer precision for pre-operative planning, surgical navigation, and assistance during procedures.
CAS is particularly useful in joint replacements and spinal surgeries, where accuracy is critical.
One of the key benefits of implementing CAS is its ability to provide surgeons with detailed anatomical maps. These maps guide them during the procedure, reducing the risk of errors.
Studies indicate that CAS has higher implant alignment accuracy in total knee arthroplasty (TKA) procedures compared to conventional methods. In addition to achieving greater accuracy, implants tend to have a longer lifespan.
Hospitals around the country are adopting CAS technology. IU Health and Indiana Joint Replacement Institute recently struck a partnership to open a new branch to capitalize on CAS.
As CAS becomes more accessible and accurate, it will continue to revolutionize orthopedic surgery.
4: Robotics in Orthopedic Surgery
Robotics is another orthopedic technology that’s gaining widespread adoption. Analysts project that the global orthopedic robotics market will exceed $2 billion in 2028, nearly tripling its 2022 value.
While similar to CAS, robotic-assisted surgery takes things a step further by allowing robots to perform specific tasks during surgery. These tasks include:
- Spinal fusion
- Bone cutting
- Implant positioning
- Artificial disk replacement
- Pelvic fracture repairs
2024 saw several FDA approvals for new surgical robots, such as the ROSA Shoulder System by Zimmer Biomet. These developments indicate a growing acceptance of robotic systems in orthopedic surgery.
5: Orthotic Exoskeletons
Orthotic exoskeletons are wearable devices that support and enhance the movement of individuals with mobility impairments. These exoskeletons assist, augment, or even restore movement in the user’s body by providing mechanical support to joints and muscles.
In orthopedics, exoskeletons support patients during rehabilitation following joint replacements or spinal surgeries, allowing for more effective recovery.
Although these resources range from $350 to $100,000+, the benefits of orthotic exoskeletons are impressive. They enable patients to regain mobility faster, improving their quality of life. Patients at prominent hospitals like UH St. John Health Center have access to these devices.
6: 3D Printing in Orthopedics
3D printing technology opens new avenues in orthopedic technology. This advancement allows for the creation of custom implants and surgical guides tailored to a patient’s unique anatomy. As a result, orthopedic physicians enjoy improved surgical outcomes and reduced intraoperative complications.
Surgical guides help doctors perform precise cuts and placements, reducing the risk of accidental harm. For instance, the Hospital for Special Surgery in New York successfully used 3D-printed guides in complex spinal surgeries. This technology will likely revolutionize orthopedic surgery, offering new possibilities for patient care.
7: Medical Records Exchange
Medical records management is becoming increasingly important in orthopedic practices. However, the Cures Act and HIPAA regulations require strict compliance during records release, posing challenges for healthcare providers. These protocols — aiming to enhance patient privacy and data security — often place a significant administrative burden that leads to increased operational costs and inefficiencies.
Advancements in technology ease these burdens. Automated records release systems optimize HIPAA-compliant release of information processes while minimizing operational bottlenecks. By leveraging AI technology, these systems ensure prompt and accurate record management.
ChartRequest offers exclusive partnerships to orthopedic practices seeking to automate records release at no cost. Our service ensures HIPAA compliance while freeing up valuable time for healthcare providers.
Embrace the Future of Orthopedic Care With the Right Technology
Innovation drives the future of orthopedic care. Are you implementing the above orthopedic technology trends into your practice?
If you’d like to step into the future of orthopedic excellence, we can help you automate the release of information at no cost with ChartRequestSelect. Set up a brief consultation to learn how our free partnership offer helps you guarantee an average turnaround time of 5 days or less.
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