THINK Surgical Inc. has secured 510(k) clearance from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for the integration of its TMINI surgical robot with Zimmer Biomet’s Persona system. This development introduces a new level of efficiency and choice in knee replacement surgeries, responding to the increasing demand for advanced robotic solutions in orthopedic procedures.
THINK Surgical previously focused on providing open-platform robotic systems that support various implant brands. The company’s collaboration with Zimmer Biomet marks a significant shift towards offering an exclusive implant option alongside its versatile platform, allowing surgeons to select the best approach for their patients. Past reports indicated that THINK Surgical’s open-platform approach was designed to enhance flexibility in surgical planning, contrasting with the more recent integration of a specialized system like Persona.
THINK Surgical Expands Robotic Offerings
THINK Surgical referred to the availability of Persona on an exclusive version of the TMINI as a major milestone. The company initiated a distribution agreement with Zimmer Biomet earlier this year. TMINI, which received FDA clearance in May 2023, features a wireless, robotic handpiece that assists surgeons in performing total knee replacements by following a CT-based three-dimensional surgical plan and compensating for the surgeon’s hand movements.
The recent FDA clearance builds on previous approvals for TMINI with Medacta knee systems and new software authorized earlier this year. THINK Surgical emphasized that this clearance makes it unique in offering both an implant-exclusive option with the Persona knee system and an open implant platform for other manufacturers’ implants. The company has added several implant options through collaborations with Maxx Orthopedics, b-ONE Ortho, and Signature Orthopaedics.
Zimmer Biomet Enhances Robotic Surgery Options
Dr. Nitin Goyal, Zimmer Biomet’s chief science, technology, and innovation officer, highlighted that the partnership with THINK Surgical enables the company to provide two complementary robotic systems for knee replacement surgeries. This strategy aims to cater to different customer segments, offering an open platform for diverse implant choices and an exclusive option with the Persona knee system. Zimmer Biomet also continues to expand its Rosa platform, which now includes applications for shoulder replacements.
THINK Surgical and Zimmer Biomet plan to introduce the customized TMINI system in select U.S. markets in the second half of 2024. This collaboration reflects a strategic move to address the evolving demands in the orthopedic surgery market, ensuring that both companies remain competitive and innovative in their offerings.
The integration of THINK Surgical’s TMINI with Zimmer Biomet’s Persona system signifies a pivotal advancement in robotic-assisted knee replacement surgeries. By offering both open and exclusive implant options, the partnership aims to provide surgeons with greater flexibility and precision in their procedures. This development is poised to enhance patient outcomes and streamline surgical workflows, making it a valuable addition to the orthopedic surgery landscape.
