Select Language:
Digital transformation is revolutionizing the surgical field, with emerging infrastructure such as 5G networks and artificial intelligence playing a crucial role in reshaping healthcare. According to the general manager of surgery at a leading medical technology company’s regional division, these advancements are instrumental in driving change.
“China ranks as the second-largest market globally for medtech,” he explained. “It accounts for nearly 20% of worldwide business, and the extensive clinical experience developed here—thanks to high clinical volumes—positions China at the forefront of medical innovation.”
At the recent international import expo in Shanghai, the company showcased over ten products for the first time, either globally or within China. Notably, they debuted the Ethicon 4000, a cutting-edge, chip-embedded 3D surgical stapler, marking its first appearance in Asia. The company’s expanding local manufacturing, research, and development efforts reflect a strategic shift in how multinational medtech firms operate within China.
Furthermore, a dedicated digital and robotics division has been established locally to consolidate various systems. These include Monarch, a flexible robotic platform for bronchoscopy; the Carina system from the Chinese robotics partner, Ronovo Surgical, which caters to urological, thoracic, gynecological, and general surgical needs; and a localized version of the Velys digital surgery platform, integrated into the company’s global offerings.
Oliveira emphasized that China’s robust AI and 5G infrastructure offer a unique environment conducive to innovative, data-driven surgical solutions. The company’s upcoming Chinese version of Velys will adhere to local data regulations and facilitate the integration of multiple surgical technologies.
“Bringing robotics, digital applications, and consumables like instruments together creates much greater value,” he said.
### Shift from Imports to Domestic Production
Initially, products introduced to China through import channels are now designed and manufactured locally. For instance, the Harmonic 7S ultrasonic scalpel—the company’s first surgical device produced in China—received approval late last year and was brought to market within just four months, benefiting thousands of patients.
“We are building a more resilient organization and capitalizing on China’s innovation capabilities,” Oliveira noted.
The company’s plant in Suzhou produces energy devices, staplers, and sutures, while local teams are developing products specifically tailored to meet Chinese surgical needs. These include an antibacterial laparoscopic suture and a fibrillar hemostatic agent, both cleared using the nation’s innovation fast-track.
### Embracing Collaboration Over Competition
Earlier this year, the company announced a partnership with Ronovo Surgical. Their Haishan-1 laparoscopic robot is China’s first modular system approved for multiple medical specialties.
“I see greater potential in China’s capabilities than in viewing it solely as a competitive landscape,” Oliveira stated. “Collaboration is essential to delivering more value. When addressing healthcare challenges, especially in surgery, digital robotics is at the core of the biggest industry transformations.”
He highlighted the success of the Monarch robotic platform, which made its Asian debut at the recent expo and was launched earlier this year. Operating in several Chinese hospitals, it enables surgeons to diagnose and treat deep lung lesions through natural pathways, eliminating external incisions, exemplifying the groundbreaking potential of integrated surgical ecosystems.
ChatGPT
Perplexity
Gemini AI
Grok AI
