Technology is contributing to healthcare innovation in amazing ways. This is a time like no other and patients will benefit with improved outcomes. Just think about the access today to computational power, the additive 3D printing manufacturing process, the potential of robotics, and digital science. So, much in the medical industry design space will evolve at a faster rate. One example showing the creative combination of all these technologies is in total joint replacement. Over a million people in the United States alone have a hip or knee replacement orthopedic procedure a year. A total knee patient is considered a success when the patient returns to full motion, can resume daily living activities, and has a high level of satisfaction. The newer total knee implants have utilized the technologies and clinical publications document an appreciable improvement of outcomes. Computer-derived total knee designs and simulated human walking models have generated new insights into shape configurations and articulating surfaces. 3D printing has allowed new geometries of bone fixation surfaces that were not possible with conventional manufacturing techniques, such as milling, drilling, or casting. And robotic assisted surgeon in the operating room helps the surgeon position an implant with a level of accuracy and precision not seen with manual instruments. The placement of the implant is digitally individualized to that person’s anatomy and functional needs. The robot helps restore that patient’s joint line for restoration of their ‘normal’ motion. It is the combination of technology and the innovators creative use that will unlock a new era in medical device design. Digital, Robotics and Enabling Technologies, Stryker Corp. This talk was given at a TEDx event using the TED conference format but independently organized by a local community. Learn more at https://www.ted.com/tedx
