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OrthoSensor’s Verasense intraoperative sensor (pictured) provides feedback to surgeons on soft tissue. The sensor could enhance Stryker’s Mako surgical robotics systems. | Credit: OrthoSensor

Stryker today acquired OrthoSensor and its Verasense intraoperative sensor technology that could enhance Stryker’s Mako robots. Financial terms of the deal were not disclosed.

Stryker officials in a news release noted that Verasense since 2011 has proved itself to be a unique knee balancing solution in Stryker’s Triathlon knee system, providing feedback to surgeons on soft tissue. Stryker said the sensor tech will further boost Mako surgical robotics systems, enhancing workflow through one complete data-driven feedback mechanism.

Additionally, OrthoSensor’s MotionSense remote patient monitoring wearables and mobile application, combined with the OrthloLogIQ cloud-based data platform, could enhance Stryker’s data analytics capabilities.

“Smart devices and implants will play a big role in orthopaedics and we are excited for OrthoSensor to join Stryker as we continue to innovate and advance smart sensor technologies, including intraoperative sensors, wearables and smart implants across our joint replacement business,” said Spencer Stiles, Stryker’s group president of Orthopaedics and Spine.

Related: Stryker strives for market share in orthopedic surgery robots

“Patient recovery will become more active as real-time measurement on key performance insights drive improved outcomes and patient satisfaction,” Stiles said.

It is unclear how the deal will impact strategic partnerships OrthoSensor has had with Stryker competitors Smith+Nephew and Zimmer Biomet.

Kaila Krum, David Rescott and Samuel Brodovsky, analysts at Truist found, it interesting that the deal comes not long after Zimmer Biomet announced a partnership with Canary Medical, with plans to launch smart implants later this year. “Overall, the trend certainly seems to be pointing in the direction of greater data integration into surgery, which should add momentum to novel technologies in the industry.”

Stryker acquired MAKO Surgical for $1.65 billion back in September 2013. In 2019, Stryker acquired both Mobius Imaging and its subsidiary Cardan Robotics for $500 million. Mobius developed point-of-care imaging technology. Its Airo TruCT scanner offers mobile, real-time imaging. And Cardan Robotics was developing robotics and navigation technology systems for surgical and interventional radiology procedures.

Editor’s Note: This article first appeared on our sister website, MassDevice.