Johnson & Johnson Launches KINCISE™ 2 System

Johnson & Johnson MedTech has announced the launch of the KINCISE 2™ Surgical Automated System, a next-generation automated power tool4,vii,viii* engineered to improve surgical efficiency5, provide control5,7 and aims to reduce physical burden on surgeons compared to manual impaction1,ix,ii across both primary and revision hip, and revision knee replacement procedures. 

Orthopaedic surgeons today face growing complexity in the operating room (OR), from longer procedures and increasing case volumes to the physical demands of surgery itself. Many procedures require repetitive, high-force tasks such as repeated mallet strikes, which have been linked to overuse injuries. 97% of surgeons report musculoskeletal pain related to their work, commonly in the lower back, hands and neck.x The KINCISE™ 2 System was developed to address these challenges head on, aiming to improve surgical efficiency5 and lessen the physical burden experienced by surgeons.1,9,ii,iii 

“When I think about what the KINCISE™ 2 System means for the future of orthopaedic care, it’s simple: it helps surgeons stay at their best, longer,” said Dr. Vasilios Mathews||, M.D.​, Texas Orthopedic Hospital​. “This system is designed to reduce strain and support surgical precision, which means we can focus more fully on the patient in front of us. That’s the true value – technology that not only improves surgical experience but helps us deliver better outcomes for every patient we treat.”  

KINCISE™ 2 builds on the consistent functionality of our first-generation KINCISE™ System. New design features—including increased reverse energy4 and push to lock adaptors7—provide an upgraded surgical workflow and experience.* The newest addition of Acetabular Cup Extraction makes the KINCISE™ 2 System the first and only automated impactor approved for removing well-fixed acetabular components5,xi,xii, expanding its role and versatility in complex hip revisions and complementing its compatibility with advanced techniques like Anterior Approach​. 

“The KINCISE™ 2 System exemplifies the needs-based innovation we’re bringing to Orthopaedics this year,” said Aldo Denti, Company Group Chairman, Orthopaedics, Johnson & Johnson MedTech. “As more patients undergo joint replacements earlier in life, the demand for revision surgeries is rising. The KINCISE™ System has demonstrated the ability to help surgeons manage those complex cases by reducing operating time1,9,ii,iii and providing procedural control1,2,3*  – ultimately supporting better outcomes for patients. |||**”    

Now commercially available in the United States, the KINCISE™ 2 System reflects Johnson & Johnson MedTech’s commitment to developing smarter, more adaptive technologies that address real challenges in orthopaedics, supporting surgeon performance, helping standardize care, and ultimately improving the surgical experience for patients and care teams alike. For more information, visit https://www.jnjmedtech.com/en-US/campaign/kincise-2-system.  

*Compared to KINCISE V1 

i.Based on a human performance study with simulated broaching 

ii.KINCISE V1 

iii.Compared to manual impaction 

||Dr. Vasilios Mathews, M.D., is a paid consultant for Johnson & Johnson MedTech. 

|||Compared to a traditional mallet 

**Based on a randomized controlled study: KINCISE (n=17) vs. mallet (n=18). Functional outcomes included hip function HOOS Survey (p=0.03), daily steps (p=0.04), walking distance (p=0.01) at 1-3 months post-operative. 

© Johnson & Johnson and its affiliates 2025. All rights reserved. US_ORT_PWTL_401272. 

Important Information: Prior to use, refer to the instructions for use supplied with the device(s) for indications, contraindications, side effects, warnings and precautions. 

  1. Ferrari E, Khan M, Mantel J, Wallbank R. The assessment of muscle fatigue in orthopedic surgeons, by comparing manual versus automated broaching in simulated total hip arthroplasty. Proceedings of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, Part H: Journal of Engineering in Medicine. 2021;235(12):1471-1478.
  2. DeCook CA. KINCISE™ Surgical Automated System: Surgical Tips and Pearls For Total Hip Arthroplasty. November 2019:1-1.1.
  3. DePuy Synthes. KINCISE System Acetabular Cup Extraction – Instructions For Use. 01/10/24. Windchill# 502088967.
  4. DePuy Synthes. KINCISE V1 – KINCISE V2 Comparison Report. 08/19/24. Windchill # 502047070.
  5. DePuy Synthes. KINCISE V2 Design Validation & Summative Testing Method and Report. 18/08/24. Windchill# 501909014.
  6. Johnson & Johnson MedTech. KINCISE 2, Human Performance Study Report. 19/12/2024. Windchill# 502146089.
  7. Johnson & Johnson MedTech. KINCISE 2 Surgical Automated System – Instructions For Use. 2024. Agile SE_933224.
  8. Johnson and Johnson MedTech. KINCISE V2–Performance and Lifetime. 2024 Windchill 501439497.
  9. Gordon D, Cardenas JM, Fawley D, Kitziger KJ, Gladnick BP. Mitigating calcar fracture risk with automated impaction during total hip arthroplasty. J Orthop. 2025;59:64-67.
  10. McQuivey KS et al. Surgical Ergonomics and Musculoskeletal Pain in Orthopaedic Surgery Residents: A Multicenter Survey Study. J Am Acad Orthop Surg Glob Res Rev. 2021;5(3):e20.00119.
  11. Zimmer Biomet. HAMMR Operation and Maintence Guide. 2024. DOC0179252
  12. Johnson & Johnson and its affiliates. KINCISE System Acetabular Cup Extraction – Instructions For Use. 01/10/24. Windchill# 502101159. 

Source: Johnson & Johnson MedTech

Long Beach Medical Center Announces First Robotic Hip Revision Using Mako Total Hip with 5.0 Software

MemorialCare Long Beach Medical Center has become the first hospital globally to successfully perform a robotic hip revision surgery utilizing Stryker’s Mako Total Hip with 5.0 Advanced Primary and Revision application. Additionally, Long Beach Medical Center is the first in California to employ the Mako 4 SmartRobotics™ in conjunction with the Q Guidance System. These landmark procedures signify a significant advancement in orthopedic surgery, reinforcing Long Beach Medical Center’s 117 year-legacy and leadership in surgical innovation, adeptness in revision procedures, and its commitment to delivering exceptional patient care.

Hip revision surgery is a highly complex procedure, typically required when complications arise from a previous joint replacement, such as implant loosening, instability, or infection. Unlike primary hip replacements, revisions involve navigating existing implants, scar tissue, compromised bone quality, and extended recovery periods – making them significantly more complex. Each year, roughly 70,000 of these procedures are performed in the United States, with that number expected to grow due to increased life expectancy and the desire for long-term joint functionality in an active aging population.

“We are incredibly proud to be the first medical center globally to perform a robotic hip revision using the Mako Total Hip with 5.0 software,” says Andrew Wassef, M.D., medical director, MemorialCare Joint Replacement Center, Long Beach Medical Center. “This milestone underscores our dedication to offering patients the most advanced and personalized surgical options available, leading to improved outcomes and faster recovery.”

Dr. Wassef, a nationally recognized orthopedic surgeon, has previously completed more than 2,000 joint replacement surgeries using Mako technology, but his first using THA 5.0 robotic platform for a hip revision. His extensive expertise and commitment to patient-centered care were pivotal in achieving this world-first accomplishment.

The latest advancement in SmartRobotics, Mako 4, represents a significant innovation in robotic-assisted joint surgery. The platform employs 3D CT-based planning and AccuStop™ haptic technology to facilitate precise, customized procedures while preserving healthy bone and tissue. When paired with the Q Guidance system, it allows for live tracking during surgery, providing enhanced accuracy in even the most complex cases. The updated 4.0 robot is both a hardware and software update and will be the platform for all future upgrades with Mako.

“Mako 4 enhances the workflow and supports the updated software of Mako THA 5.0, allowing us to tackle challenging surgeries with features like augment and screw planning, and intraoperative screw trajectory guidance,” says Dr. Wassef. “With more than 1.5 million Mako procedures performed worldwide, the introduction of Mako THA 5.0 for hip revision further elevates the standard of orthopedic care by enhancing surgical precision and improving patient satisfaction.”

The expanded Mako Total Hip with 5.0 software also provides surgeons with advanced visualization of the femur-to-pelvis and component relationship. This allows for detection of potential impingement risks – when tendons or soft tissue become pinched within the joint – and for precise implant positioning based on changes in pelvic tilt during sitting, standing, and lying positions. The range-of-motion modeling helps pre-plan surgery with exceptional precision, enabling optimal implant placement tailored to each patient’s unique anatomy and movement patterns. 

Robotic-assisted hip revision surgery provides several clinical benefits. Patients frequently report less postoperative discomfort, smaller incisions, and reduced hospital stays. The technology’s enhanced precision contributes to greater implant longevity and lowers the risk of complications, ultimately promoting a faster return to mobility and daily function. Furthermore, studies indicate that patients who undergo robotic hip procedures are more than twice as likely to perceive their hip functioning normally compared to those treated with traditional surgical methods.

“I feel incredibly fortunate to have had this procedure done at Long Beach Medical Center and to be the first patient in the world to receive a robotic hip revision using this new technology,” says Margaretha Vanderlaan, the first person to undergo robotic hip revision with Mako Total Hip 5.0. “Dr. Wassef and the entire care team were exceptional. Their expertise and compassion made me feel confident and cared for every step of the way.”

The adoption of robotic-assisted surgeries is expanding globally, with healthcare systems recognizing the potential for improved efficiency, reduced complications, and increased patient satisfaction. This achievement reflects Long Beach Medical Center’s ongoing investment in advanced technology and reinforces its reputation as a leader in orthopedic innovation.

Source: MemorialCare Long Beach Medical Center

THINK Surgical Announces First Use of Freedom® Total Knee Implant with TMINI® Miniature Robotic System

THINK Surgical, Inc. has announced the first use of Maxx Orthopedics’ Freedom Total Knee implant utilizing the TMINI® Miniature Robotic System by Dr. David V. Cashen, a Joint Replacement specialist at Coastal Orthopedics Surgery Center in Bradenton, Florida.

Maxx Orthopedics’ Freedom® Total and Titan® Knee Systems provide modern implant design philosophies and multiple bearing surfaces to meet the demands of a diverse patient population. Surgeons can seamlessly integrate the Freedom Total and Titan Knee systems with the TMINI Miniature Robotic System to provide patients with a comprehensive total knee replacement solution.

“I am thrilled to be the first surgeon globally to use the Freedom Knee implants with the new TMINI System developed by THINK Surgical,” said Dr. Cashen. “I like having tools in my hands designed to make me more efficient, provide accuracy, and assist with achieving the best possible outcomes. It is ideal to have a robotic technology that allows me to develop a personalized plan for every patient, place and align the Freedom primary knee components with precision, using a fast, efficient workflow.”

“This first case with the TMINI Robot and the Freedom Total Knee is an exciting milestone,” said Stuart Simpson, CEO and President of THINK Surgical. “It is clear that surgeons want to use technology which is compatible with their preferred implant. The Freedom Knee is growing quickly in the US and is an important addition to the TMINI Platform.”

Ashesh Shah, Chief Executive Officer of Maxx Orthopedics stated, “Performing the very first robotic-assisted procedure in the US with our Freedom® Knee System is a significant milestone in our partnership with THINK Surgical. Quantifiable data, robotic-assistance, diverse implant options, and proven implant designs are aimed at improving clinical outcomes and enhancing the surgeon experience in total knee arthroplasty.”

“Maxx Ortho is very excited Dr. David Cashen has performed the very first robotic-assisted TKA procedures in the US with the Freedom® Total Knee System and THINK Surgical’s TMINI System. Combining handheld, wireless robotics and our clinically proven total knee system will offer an excellent surgical option for our surgeon users and their patients,” said Farzin Khaghani, Chief Commercial Officer at Maxx Orthopedics.

THINK Surgical received FDA 510(k) clearance for use of the Maxx Orthopedics Freedom Total and Titan Knee Systems with the TMINI Miniature Robotic System in November of 2024.

Source: THINK Surgical, Inc.

THINK Surgical Receives FDA 510(k) Clearance to use Freedom® Total Knee, Freedom Titan® Knee, and Freedom Primary PCK® System implants with TMINI® Miniature Robotic System

THINK Surgical, Inc. has announced that its TMINI® Miniature Robotic System has received 510(k) clearance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use with the Freedom Total Knee, Freedom Titan Knee, and Freedom Primary PCK Systems from Maxx Orthopedics, Inc. (Norristown, PA) under a Collaboration Agreement between the two companies.

The Freedom Total Knee, Freedom Titan Knee, and Freedom Primary PCK Systems have been added to THINK Surgical’s ID-HUB™, a proprietary data bank of implant modules for use with the open platform version of its TMINI System in the United States.

The Freedom Total Knee and Freedom Titan Knee Systems feature a multi-radius design that accommodates individual patient anatomy, potentially leading to improved alignment and positioning for long-term success. It offers an enhanced range of motion that can achieve flexion up to 155 degrees to help improve functional outcomes for active lifestyles after surgery. Clinically, it has demonstrated strong performance and durability with a 10-year survivorship of 98.3%1.

“Maxx Orthopedics believes in great partnerships and is excited surgeons will have the ability to perform robotic-assisted TKA procedures with our Freedom Total Knee System. Combining our knee solutions with the TMINI System, surgeons can choose from multiple implant options- standard materials to metal sensitivity solutions- and seamlessly perform conventional or robotic-assisted procedures,” said Ashesh Shah, chief executive officer of Maxx Orthopedics. 

“THINK Surgical is excited to offer the TMINI System for use with the Freedom Knee System. The open platform version of TMINI is now available with eight different knee designs from eight separate orthopedic companies offering surgeons the choice of single-radius, anatomic (multi-radius), and guided motion knees on a single robotic platform” said Stuart Simpson, president, and chief executive officer of THINK Surgical. 

References

1. Durbhakula S, Rego L, Eberle R: Restoration of Femoral Condylar Anatomy for Achieving Optimum Functional Expectations: Continuation of Earlier Studies at 10-Years follow-up. J Orthop Exp Innovation, [Accepted for Publication], 2024.

Source:  THINK Surgical, Inc.

THINK Surgical Receives FDA 510(k) Clearance for Use of LinkSymphoKnee Implants With TMINI Miniature Robotic System

THINK Surgical, Inc. has announced that its TMINI® Miniature Robotic System has received 510(k) clearance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use with the LinkSymphoKnee (LSK) from Waldemar Link GmbH & Co. KG, Germany (LINK) under a Collaboration Agreement between the two companies.

The LinkSymphoKnee has been added to THINK Surgical’s ID-HUB™, a proprietary data bank of implant modules for use with the open platform version of its TMINI System in the United States.

“At LINK, we have always prioritized innovation in orthopedic solutions, focusing on how we can empower our customers—the surgeons—with tools that can be used to elevate precision, adaptability, and patient outcomes,” said Peter Willenborg, chief executive officer of LINK.

Greg Pomasl, president of LINK in the USA (LinkBio Corporation), added, “Through this partnership, we’re not only providing a state-of-the-art robotic solution but a nimble, cost-effective, hand-held option that complements the full spectrum of our LinkSymphoKnee primary products,” said Pomasl. “With LinkSymphoKnee and the TMINI System, we are setting a new standard in knee surgery support, ensuring our customers have the most advanced tools available to deliver exceptional patient care.”

“THINK Surgical is excited to add the LinkSymphoKnee to the TMINI System. The open platform version of TMINI is now available with eight different knee designs from eight separate orthopedic companies offering surgeons the choice of single-radius, anatomic, and guided motion knees on a single robotic platform.” said Stuart Simpson, president, and chief executive officer of THINK Surgical.

Source: THINK Surgical, Inc.

THINK Surgical Receives FDA 510(k) Clearance for Zimmer Biomet Persona Knee on TMINI® Miniature Robotic System

THINK Surgical, Inc. has announced that its TMINI® Miniature Robotic System has received 510(k) clearance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for use with the Persona® The Personalized Knee System® from Zimmer Biomet.

The availability of the Persona Knee System on an exclusive version of the TMINI System is a major milestone for THINK Surgical. THINK Surgical is the only company offering a robotic system providing both an implant exclusive option with the Persona Knee System and an open implant platform for use with implants from multiple other manufacturers for total knee arthroplasty.

This go-to-market strategy supports two distinct customer segments, one which prefers an open platform where the customer can choose from a range of implants on the robot and another which prefers an exclusive platform with the market leading Persona Knee System.

“TMINI addresses surgeon demand for ergonomic, wireless, handheld robotic systems and we believe this will accelerate adoption of robotics in knee procedures, particularly in the out-patient setting.” said THINK Surgical CEO, Stuart Simpson.

Source: THINK Surgical, Inc.

THINK Surgical Lands FDA 510(k) Clearance for TMINI Miniature Robotic System (TMINI 1.1)  

THINK Surgical today announced that its TMINI® Miniature Robotic System (TMINI 1.1) has received 510(k) clearance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).  

The TMINI 1.1 system software provides substantial new capabilities empowering surgeon choice throughout total knee arthroplasty procedures.  The new TMINI PRO™ workflow, enables Positional Refinement and Optimization of the implant tailored to the patient’s needs. The workflow’s dynamic data capture and real-time feedback allows surgeons to make positional adjustments to help fine-tune implant positioning and stability. The TMINI PRO workflow is intuitive and customizable around surgeon preferences and implant philosophy choices. Surgical plan adjustments are wirelessly transmitted to the TMINI Robot for a seamless surgical experience. 

“The new TMINI PRO workflow enabled by the updated TMINI 1.1 software provides me with everything I need from robotics for my total knee replacements,” said Dr. Alexander Sah, Co-Director of the Institute of Joint Restoration. “The added ability to assess real-time soft tissue balance intraoperatively and to adjust my plan according to my preferences in the OR helps me deliver the best possible outcomes for my patients.” 

The TMINI System includes a wireless robotic handpiece that assists surgeons in performing total knee replacement.  Following a CT based three-dimensional surgical plan which may be updated following intraoperative joint assessment, the TMINI robotic handpiece automatically compensates for surgeon hand movement to locate bone pins along precisely defined planes. Cutting guides are then connected to the bone pins for accurate bone resection. TMINI is easy to use and replaces many of the instruments currently used for manual knee replacement surgery.  

“This software release is a major enhancement to our TMINI Robotic System that not only meets our customers’ needs but is a differentiator for our platform in this industry,” said Stuart Simpson, President, and Chief Executive Officer of THINK Surgical. “It is a major accomplishment for our company to receive a 2nd FDA clearance for our TMINI System in less than 15-months.  This demonstrates our development capabilities and commitment to innovation as a focused robotics and digital surgery company.”   

THINK Surgical is committed to maximizing customer access to its handheld TMINI Miniature Robotic System, including two distinct customer segments, one that prefers an open platform where the customer can choose from a range of implants on the robot and another that prefers an exclusive platform where the customer gains access to the robot in return for loyalty to a single implant brand.  THINK Surgical intends to continue adding new implant options to its open implant library over time. The choice of exclusive platform or open implant platform, combined with the robust feature offering and ease of use of the TMINI system should appeal to a broad customer base who may have been resistant to robotics until now.  

Source: THINK Surgical

Innovative Medical Products & Curexo Inc. Announce Strategic Partnership

Innovative Medical Products, Inc. (IMP) and Curexo Inc. announce global strategic distribution partnership combining Curexo’s artificial joint surgical robot, CUVIS-joint, with IMP’s industry-leading De Mayo D2® Knee Positioner.

IMP, an innovator in surgical patient positioning devices, announced its entry into a nonexclusive OUS distribution agreement with Curexo, Inc., developers of the world’s first fully automatic surgical robot. Under the distribution agreement, Curexo will include a De Mayo D2 Knee Positioner, a De Mayo Universal Distractor® 2.0, and an IMP Sterilization Case, along with the implementation of the CUVIS-joint robot, in hospitals outside the U.S. and around the world. IMP will continue its independent sales distribution channel within the U.S. and globally.

“We are excited to foster this relationship with Curexo and enhance our strategic initiative to provide surgical patient positioners to hospitals and surgeons worldwide. The De Mayo D2 Knee Positioner, along with the De Mayo Universal Distractor, is ideal for stabilizing the knee joint during robotic knee replacement surgery, and partnering with the next-generation CUVIS-joint robotic platform allows both organizations to provide the best care to the patients,” said Mike Reilly, Chief Commercial Officer of IMP.

Jae Jun Lee, CEO of Curexo, Inc., said, “The De Mayo D2 Knee Positioner, along with the De Mayo Universal Distractor with the CUVIS-joint, has proven to be the best combination for successful robotic surgery in 16,000+ cases of TKA surgery to date. Through this global strategic distribution partnership, we expect to establish a stable distribution relationship with IMP in all regions where we supply CUVIS-joint and to develop new technology that is more suitable for our robotic surgery of CUVIS-joint.”

“The De Mayo D2 Knee Positioner and the De Mayo Universal Distractor have demonstrated to be extremely valuable tools for orthopedic surgeons. Pairing those tools with a state-of-the-art robot like Curexo’s CUVIS joint has provided the surgeon an unmatched experience while improving patient care. I’m excited about this partnership and look forward to working with the talented Curexo team,” said Rich Larkin, Chief Operating Officer of IMP.

Source: Innovative Medical Products

Smith+Nephew and U.S. Army Institute of Surgical Research Announce Master Cooperative Research and Development Agreement

Smith+Nephew announced they have entered into a Master Cooperative Research and Development Agreement (CRADA) with the U.S. Army Institute of Surgical Research (USAISR). This marks the first time that the USAISR has entered into a master agreement of this nature with an industry-leading medical technology company.

The Master CRADA represents an enterprise-wide opportunity for Smith+Nephew across all business units – Advanced Wound Management, Orthopaedics and Sports Medicine – to enter into multiple collaborative research efforts.

“Smith+Nephew has a rich history supporting the military and partnering with the USAISR on this agreement furthers our purpose of helping people live their Life Unlimited,” said Rohit Kashyap, President, Advanced Wound Management and Commercial Operations at Smith+Nephew. “This agreement is exciting on many levels – not just for Smith+Nephew, but for our customers and their patients as well.”

The agreement enables efficient collaboration and strengthens the relationship between the USAISR and Smith+Nephew for future research endeavours in diverse areas of mutual interest. These types of cooperative efforts benefit both the Department of Defense (DOD) and industry leaders by providing opportunities to conduct joint research and learn from each other.

“The pre-negotiated key terms and conditions of the Master CRADA provide the broad legal framework under which for multiple, future collaborative research efforts will be assigned. In addition to streamlining the research agreement process, this Master CRADA provides the foundation for a strategic, joint effort to leverage the infrastructure, expertise, and capabilities of both parties to support innovation that aims to address technical challenges to improving combat casualty care,” said COL (Dr.) J. Brian Lanier, Commander, U.S. Army Institute of Surgical Research (USAISR).

Source: Smith+Nephew