Zimmer Biomet recently announced the Brachiator mini-rail external fixation system.
Launched with Paragon 28, which ZB acquired for $1.2 billion in April 2025, the Brachiator is meant for precise, multi-planar correction, rapid construct assembly, and workflow efficiency for the correction of bone deformities and stabilization of fractures of the foot and ankle.
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The Brachiator system represents an expansion of Zimmer Biomet external fixation portfolio capabilities into forefoot and the midfoot. The system boasts compact design, universal pin compatibility and intuitive clamp mechanics to support a wide range of procedures.
“Developed in close collaboration with leading surgeons, the Brachiator mini-rail system was purpose-built to support bone deformity correction and fracture stabilization of the foot and ankle — including metatarsal lengthening and shortening and 1st MPJ distraction — where precision down to the millimeter can determine outcomes,” Albert DaCosta, global president of Foot and Ankle for Zimmer Biomet, said in a Jan. 20 news release.
“This technology empowers surgeons with versatile fixation for complex cases while prioritizing efficiency and workflow optimization. It also underscores our broader commitment to tackling health care’s most pressing challenges and elevating the standard of care across musculoskeletal health.”
According to ZB, conventional mini fixators rely on rigid, fixed-angle clamps, or they require mid-procedure construct teardown to achieve adequate reduction. In contrast, the Brachiator system has built-in, in-plane and out-of-plane rotational control. Surgeons can perform fine, multi-axis reduction even after pins are placed. The compact rail and carriage design maintains a ≥2 cm soft-tissue–friendly profile above the skin surface, supporting patient tolerance and postoperative management.
