Knee Surgery Robot by J&J Gains FDA Approval

In the robotics market, Stryker gained an advantage over J&J after purchasing Mako Surgical in 2013. In 2019, Zimmer Biomet launched its product line after obtaining 510(k) approval for their Rosa knee device. After a delayed launch that saw its first Velys approval in the United States in 2021, J&J is currently seeking to increase the program’s usage.

The application of Velys in unicompartmental knee arthroplasty (UKA), the medical name for partial knee substitution, is covered by the recent FDA clearance. According to J&J, despite the operation’s potential to promote bone preservation and expedite healing times, its utilisation is limited by issues including smaller incisions and poor vision.

In J&J’s press releasem John Redmond, an orthopedic surgeon stated: “Achieving precise alignment and optimal implant placement is paramount for long-term success, and the ability to do so in a reproducible manner continues to be an unmet need in the UKA space.”

They continued: “will enable a more personalized procedure that helps drive reproducible outcomes.”