Johnson & Johnson MedTech (J&J MedTech) has launched the Virtuguide, an AI-powered, patient-matched solution for Lapidus procedures in the US.
The Virtuguide system is designed to simplify bunion surgery by realigning the foot.
It analyses patient anatomy using CT or X-ray images to select the appropriate Virtual Alignment and Correction (VAC) Guide, streamlining the planning process.
The system employs pre-operative planning software, developed in collaboration with Portugal-based PeekMed, to personalise recommendations for bunion correction.
It addresses the challenges of traditional Lapidus surgery by reducing complexity and enhancing efficiency.
Early users reported a reduction in operative time by at least 30 minutes and improved consistency in surgical correction compared to previous methods.
Johnson & Johnson MedTech orthopaedics trauma, extremities, craniomaxillofacial, animal health and sports medicine worldwide president Oray Boston said: “The Virtuguide system is a pivotal advancement in AI-powered surgical precision for treating bunion deformities, a common, painful, and potentially debilitating condition affecting nearly one-third of Americans.
“This milestone marks an important step forward, as Virtuguide becomes the latest addition to our growing portfolio of VELYS Enabling Tech solutions.
“By automating surgical planning and tailoring instrumentation to each patient, the system helps reduce complexity in the operating room and helps surgeons to achieve the intended correction.”
Key features of the Virtuguide System include AI-automated pre-operative planning, patient-matched instrumentation, and reduced surgical complexity.
The system allows users to receive a Patient Matched VAC Guide within 24 hours, potentially accelerating the time between imaging and surgery.
It also enables minimal bone resection, reducing potential shortening of the first ray.
The Realignment and Compression (RAC) Block aligns the first ray through distal and proximal wires, applying intra-operative compression via convergent wire holes.
The Virtuguide system was launched following the 510(k) clearance from the US Food & Drug Administration for its pre-operative planning software earlier this year.
J&J MedTech is commercialising the system across the US for bunion surgery.
Atlantic Orthopaedic Specialists board-certified orthopaedic surgeon Michael Campbell said: “Virtuguide has completely transformed my approach to bunion surgery, making a complex Lapidus procedure significantly easier and faster.
Since adopting Virtuguide, my surgical corrections have been spot-on—what I plan preoperatively is exactly what I achieve in the operating room.
“This improved accuracy leads to better outcomes, and the ability to present the pre-operative plan to my patients helps address their questions and ease their concerns.”
