Smith+Nephew redefines shoulder arthroplasty with stemless implant in AETOS Shoulder System

Smith+Nephew, a global leader in medical technology (LSE: SN, NYSE: SNN), has made a significant leap in orthopaedic surgical innovation with the introduction of the AETOS Stemless implant. Recently granted 510(k) clearance by the United States Food and Drug Administration (FDA), this latest addition to the AETOS Shoulder System is designed to provide an advanced solution for total shoulder replacement, catering to a rising demand for efficient and personalised surgical procedures.

What Is the AETOS Stemless Implant?

The AETOS Stemless implant is a breakthrough in shoulder arthroplasty, offering a compact design that prioritises metaphyseal fixation and stability. Featuring an inlay collar, cruciate fins, and a porous titanium coating, this implant encourages biological fixation, reducing the need for extensive surgical intervention. This innovation is part of Smith+Nephew’s broader efforts to streamline procedures and enhance recovery outcomes for patients undergoing anatomic total shoulder replacement.

Why Is the AETOS Stemless Implant Important?

The demand for shoulder arthroplasty advancements has surged, with an estimated 250,000 total shoulder procedures expected annually in the United States by 2025. Smith+Nephew’s stemless shoulder implant addresses this growth by enabling surgeons to perform procedures with a smaller operating room footprint and increased surgical efficiency.

Craig Gaffin, President of Global Orthopaedics for Smith+Nephew, stated that the AETOS Shoulder System, particularly the Stemless implant, represents a pivotal step in providing personalised surgical options. He emphasised that these innovations are tailored to improve recovery times and help patients return to normal activities, aligning with the company’s “Life Unlimited” ethos.

How Does the AETOS Shoulder System Enhance Surgical Flexibility?

Introduced in 2023, the AETOS Shoulder System has been lauded for its elegant design, simplicity, and flexibility. The inclusion of the AETOS Stemless implant enhances this system further by enabling seamless conversion to the Meta Stem option. This convertibility allows surgeons to adapt procedures based on patient-specific needs, marking a shift toward customisable orthopaedic solutions.

By offering streamlined solutions, the AETOS Shoulder System helps reduce surgical complexity while maintaining high standards of care. Its features allow for better surgical workflow, making it a preferred choice for orthopaedic surgeons aiming to achieve consistent patient outcomes.

What Sets the AETOS Stemless Implant Apart?

Smith+Nephew’s AETOS Stemless implant is distinct in its ability to deliver advanced shoulder arthroplasty innovations while ensuring optimal fixation. Key attributes of the implant include:

Porous titanium coating that fosters biological fixation.

Inlay collar and cruciate fins to enhance metaphyseal stability.

Compact design, which minimises the surgical footprint in operating rooms.

These features position the stemless shoulder implant as a game-changing option for patients requiring total shoulder replacement.

How Does Smith+Nephew Address the Growing Market for Shoulder Arthroplasty?

Smith+Nephew’s introduction of the AETOS Stemless implant reflects its strategic approach to meet the increasing demand for shoulder arthroplasty procedures. With the US orthopaedics market projected to grow rapidly, the company is leveraging its expertise to provide cutting-edge solutions.

In addition to its focus on total shoulder replacement, Smith+Nephew is expanding its Upper Extremity portfolio, which includes innovations in sports medicine and biologics. This comprehensive approach solidifies its leadership in the field of orthopaedic surgical innovation, catering to the evolving needs of patients and surgeons alike.

Where Is the AETOS Stemless Implant Available?

The AETOS Stemless implant has been cleared for use in the United States and approved for use in Canada. This dual-market availability underlines Smith+Nephew’s commitment to making shoulder arthroplasty advancements accessible to patients globally.

What Does the Future Hold for Shoulder Arthroplasty?

As the field of shoulder arthroplasty continues to grow, Smith+Nephew is expected to play a pivotal role in shaping its trajectory. The company’s ongoing commitment to orthopaedic surgical innovation is evident in its ability to deliver high-quality, adaptable solutions like the AETOS Shoulder System. By addressing both surgeon needs and patient outcomes, Smith+Nephew ensures its place as a leader in the advancement of total shoulder replacement technologies.