In recognition of ODT celebrating its 20^th year covering the orthopedic device design and manufacturing industry, I decided to take a moment to mark another anniversary. Later this year, I’ll enjoy my 10^th year with ODT as editor-in-chief.

Soon after I started, I wrote my second ODT Editor’s Letter based on observations from my first visit to the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons (AAOS) Annual Meeting. In that editorial, I discussed a number of issues that were generating conversations at the time. Among my observations was the debate over single-use versus reusable devices and the impact of each on healthcare-acquired infections (referencing a study performed by Medacta and Solvay Specialty Polymers). I also noted my conversation with a representative from Conformis about the increasing interest in customized (i.e., patient-specific) implants. I highlighted the biologics tutorial I received from the Bioventus CEO at the time, Anthony Bihl, and predicted a movement by industry to enable more natural-looking replacements than the traditional, metal-based implants. I also shared my observations after speaking with an employee from IlluminOss, which hadn’t yet gained FDA clearance. (If interested, read the full version: ajay.odt.rodmanadmin.com/welcoming-party.) 

Traditionally, orthopedics was one of the slower moving sectors of medtech in terms of advancements. Not much had changed with regard to the implants, instruments, or supporting technologies. Sure, innovation took place, but it seemed to be at a snail’s pace in comparison to other corners of medtech. So, for someone who hadn’t truly had a finger on the pulse of the sector, I found these areas of advancement to be fantastic and incredibly interesting. 

I’m now attending the AAOS event 10 years later and am amazed how the industry has evolved. Curiously, many of the conversations haven’t changed in terms of scope, but the details are new. Single-use versus reusable is still a debate taking place. Healthcare-acquired infections are still a concern. Interest in (and providers of) customized, patient-specific implants have grown substantially. Biologics continue to generate interest and offer a reality for my forecasted view of an industry focused on a more natural treatment approach. Finally, IlluminOss has gained several FDA clearances since my initial introduction to the company.

Walking the aisles at the AAOS annual meeting today, however, reveals the future growth prospects for this industry. If the 2025 event were my first time attending, I’d likely identify a number of areas that weren’t even on my radar in 2016. The most obvious would probably be the robotic-assisted technologies that are prevalent at every major orthopedic device maker as well as numerous small- to mid-sized organizations. While there are discussions about whether these systems are worth the investment, we’re still at the relative infancy of their existence. Their development will continue and the advancements will push more variables into the positive column to support their value. 

Another aspect drawing my interest is the amount of non-metallic options across the exhibit floor. Titanium, cobalt-chrome, and other metals are not going away anytime soon, but this year, I’m seeing PEEK, PEKK, plastics, ceramics, and likely more materials I haven’t come across yet that offer their own set of benefits over their metal-based counterparts. 

While patient-specific was somewhat unique to Conformis in 2016 (as far as I saw), in 2025, it barely draws the eye. With the rapid advancements in additive manufacturing (AM) coupled with processing of patient imaging, customized implants are provided from a variety of vendors. Now the debate and discussion is taking place with regard to the value of point-of-care AM solutions and how hospitals might leverage an AM lab located at their site. Is the investment worthwhile or is it better to wait for this technology to advance further and more of the questions to be resolved?

Perhaps the most interesting aspect of today’s orthopedic innovation revolves around the digital movement in healthcare. While orthopedics was one of the sectors slower to adopt new technologies, now it could be considered among the leaders in terms of its use of digital tools and solutions. This year’s AAOS event has numerous exhibits focused on virtual and augmented reality technologies. In addition, many exhibitors are promoting their data-driven devices and software, from ensuring an implant is balanced to helping physicians plan the best surgical approach. We may also see more of the traditional technologies impacted by digitalization with the advent of “smart” implants, such as Zimmer Biomet’s Persona IQ smart knee implant. Ideally, more information will lead to better patient results and faster recovery times. 

Did you attend this year’s AAOS event? What aspects, technologies, or trends get you excited for what’s to come? What caught your eye this year? Let me know!

Sean Fenske, Editor-in-Chief
sfenske@rodmanmedia.com