Exactech, a developer and producer of innovative implants, instrumentation and smart technologies for joint replacement surgery, announced the full launch of Equinoxe® Ergo® instrumentation which supports its flagship shoulder system. Ergonomic, ideal for outpatient surgery and compatible with the ExactechGPS® navigation system, the new instrument sets perpetuate the Equinoxe shoulder system’s heritage of design excellence.
The Ergo instruments are designed with a focus on ergonomics – to be comfortable in the surgeon’s hands and to offer a secure grip. The modular components are intended for easy assembly and adaptable to the surgeon’s individual preferences. Many of the instruments serve multiple functions which means a more efficient, space-saving experience in the operating room. Equinoxe Ergo instruments represent a 50% reduction in instrument trays, which can decrease the reprocessing cost per case and make them ideal for the outpatient surgery environment.
“Surgeons want instrumentation with ease-of-use. The Ergo instruments are interchangeable, which helps cases run smoothly,” said Stephanie Muh, MD, an orthopaedic surgeon at Henry Ford Health System and Ergo design team member. “With Ergo, we have consolidated to just a few trays, which translates to cost savings. It’s positive for the hospital and for my surgical team.”
According to Exactech’s Senior Vice President of Extremities Chris Roche, “The new Ergo instruments build on two decades of clinical experience with the Equinoxe, the industry’s fastest-growing shoulder. They showcase the innovation and design style that is central to the Equinoxe system’s success – and redefine the status quo in shoulder surgery.”
Another key feature of the new Ergo instruments is their compatibility with ExactechGPS® shoulder navigation. The GPS-compatible Ergo instruments include access to newly designed reamers, drills and other instruments, as well as an updated half-tray assembly – all of which allows for a more efficient workflow.
“Having new, updated instruments that allow surgeons to take full advantage of the ExactechGPS navigation system is a monumental, highly anticipated step forward,” said Scott Trenhaile, MD, orthopaedic surgeon at Ortho Illinois and Ergo design team member. “ExactechGPS is being used in more and more shoulder cases, and the compatible Ergo instruments will make adoption even easier.”
In just five years since its introduction, the ExactechGPS shoulder application is now used in ~40% of Equinoxe shoulder cases performed worldwide. The navigation system’s use is steadily increasing around the globe, including introduction in Brazil last month.
Ergo instruments are available in the U.S. and select regions globally, with expansion to other countries in 2022. Additional instruments, including for augment implantation, are being piloted now.
