Assembly - January 2009 - (Page 52) Medical Device Assembly Knees (top) and hips (bottom) will continue to account for the vast majority of reconstructive joint replacements in the future. Photos courtesy Stryker Corp. companies control more than 80 percent of the U.S. market. At next month’s annual American Academy of Orthopedic Surgeons (Rosemont, IL) meeting in Las Vegas, implant manufacturers are expected to unveil new products that address the following trends: Minimally invasive surgery. During the past few years, the industry has been moving toward more minimally invasive procedures that call for innovative surgical instruments and orthopedic devices. Better biomaterials. Advancement in the biomaterials used in implants continually drives the orthopedic device market. Orthopedic surgeons and their patients are looking for better wear-resistance, longer life, increased bone integration and improved weight-bearing capabilities. Custom designs. Today, “gender knees” are a hot topic in the orthopedic profession. Several companies are offering products that accommodate the differences in male-female body structure. 52 ASSEMBLY / January 2009 www.assemblymag.com http://www.HERNONMFG.COM http://www.HERNONMFG.COM http://www.assemblymag.com
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