Challenges Ahead for TJR Market

A reprint of a feature in the February 2009 issue of Medtech Insight. With few new treatment options on the horizon for patients suffering from joint pain associated with hip and knee osteoarthritis, it should come as no surprise that the business of joint replacement is booming and will continue to do so for the foreseeable future. Even in the current economic environment where elective joint replacement procedures are likely to slow down, there has not (yet) been a significant impact on implant sales.The industry admits it is not immune to the global economic crisis, at least in the short term. However, over the long haul, the general consensus is that this market will remain strong owing to solid growth in the patient pool.