Orthopaedic Surgical Robots Market Report

Artificial intelligence (AI) is increasingly being utilized in various sectors, including the medical field. AI is a broad term describing the use of algorithms to produce helpful results, without requiring human thinking. Owing to the increasing amount of patient data, referred to as 'big data', AI is demonstrating potential as a valuable tool in healthcare research and in all stages of patient care. Orthopaedic surgery applies in diagnostics for fracture recognition, tumour detection; predictive models for clinical outcomes and patient-reported measures like mortality rates, length of hospital stays and real-time monitoring in rehabilitation and surgical training.

However, Robotic systems now provide cutting-edge simulation and training platforms for orthopaedic surgeons, enabling hands-on practice and advanced learning. These platforms address the skills gap by offering realistic, interactive training, thereby enhancing surgeon proficiency and confidence. As a result, they facilitate smoother adoption of robotic technology in orthopaedic surgeries, leading to better patient outcomes and operational efficiency. For instance, The Royal Australasian College of Surgeons (RACS) and the International Medical Robotics Academy (IMRA) work together to provide a thorough program for training in robot-assisted surgery. This collaboration joins two top organizations in robot-assisted surgery to offer surgeons the necessary knowledge and skills for safe and efficient robot-assisted procedures. IMRA and RACS are working together on several robotics courses, focusing on different surgical specialties to equip surgeons with advanced skills required for intricate robotic-assisted surgeries.

High-intensity focused ultrasound (HIFU), cryotherapy, laparoscopy, and open procedures are some of the alternatives for orthopaedic surgical robots. The complications associated with robotic surgical systems, along with a shortage of trained surgeons, are driving the current healthcare system to turn to other popular alternative treatments to treat a wide range of ailments and diseases. There are also economic advantages to laparoscopic procedures as an alternative, such as a shorter hospital stay, which saves overall medical expenditures. The procedure is less invasive than open surgery, resulting in less blood loss, quicker recovery times, shorter hospital stays, and less discomfort. Furthermore, due to a lack of appropriate healthcare infrastructure, funding restrictions, and skill in performing robotic surgery in underdeveloped nations such as Africa, open procedures are chosen over robotic surgeries. Such benefits drive demand for alternative treatments and are projected to stymie industry expansion throughout the forecast period.

Furthermore, many healthcare facilities face a challenge due to the significant financial investment required to acquire and operate orthopedic surgical robots. For instance, buying one robotic system can cost more than US$1 million, without factoring in the extra costs for upkeep, training, and enhancements. The steep price can be especially difficult for smaller hospitals and clinics, like rural healthcare centres, that might find it hard to see the value of the expense without immediate benefits. Therefore, these establishments might postpone or choose not to implement robotic technology, even though it could improve surgical accuracy and patient results.

The application of surgical robotics is essential in orthopaedics to enhance accuracy in challenging procedures such as joint replacements and spine surgeries. These systems provide exceptional precision, enabling less invasive techniques that decrease recovery periods and potential issues. They improve the surgeon's capacity for conducting complex tasks with higher precision, resulting in better results and fewer mistakes during surgery. With the advancement of orthopedic procedures, robotics guarantees precise execution of operations to meet the growing need for effective and efficient orthopedic solutions. For instance, in April 2024, Zimmer Biomet Holdings, Inc. a global medical technology leader, announced the successful completion of the world’s first robotic-assisted shoulder replacement surgery using its ROSA shoulder System. In addition, in June 2024, THINK Surgical, Inc., an innovator in the field of orthopedic surgical robots, announced that it has entered into a Limited Exclusive Distribution and Supply Agreement with Zimmer Biomet, a global medical technology leader. Under the distribution agreement, Zimmer Biomet will result in an exclusive offering, integrating ZB technology into a customized TMINI robotic solution for total knee arthroplasty

North America is anticipated to dominate the global market during the forecast period. The North American orthopaedic market is expanding rapidly due to the increasing popularity of orthopaedic surgical robots and a surge in the number of surgical operations. Furthermore, the increasing number of spinal non-fusion surgeries, the faster and easier acceptance of technologically advanced spinal implants, and increasing manufacturer expenditure in clinical trials are driving market expansion in this region. Furthermore, an increase in sports-related injuries is contributing significantly to the market's expansion. For instance, a new study report issued by Safe Kids Worldwide estimates that 1.35 million young athletes have sports injuries serious enough to require hospitalisation. In certain cases, doctors may recommend knee replacement or knee arthroplasty to resurface an arthritis-damaged knee. The increasing prevalence is driving demands for knee replacement, which is driving demand for robots with more precision and accuracy. As a result, the need for orthopaedic surgical robots in North America will continue to increase.