FirstHealth of the Carolinas advances orthopaedic surgery capabilities with new OrthoGrid Hip AI technology

PINEHURST — FirstHealth of the Carolinas is expanding its orthopaedic capabilities with the addition of Zimmer Biomet’s OrthoGrid Hip AI, an innovative surgical guidance technology designed to help surgeons perform total hip replacement procedures with greater precision and consistency. 

Pinehurst Surgical Clinic Orthopaedic Surgeon John R. Moore, IV, M.D., was first to use the technology in September during a hip replacement surgery at Moore Regional Hospital in Pinehurst. 

"We are dedicated to adopting the latest technologies so that we can deliver the best possible outcomes for our patients,” said Moore. “The addition of OrthoGrid Hip AI reflects our commitment to expanding our orthopaedic capabilities here in Pinehurst. To be a part of this progression is a privilege."

OrthoGrid Hip AI integrates artificial intelligence and real-time data during surgery, providing surgeons with advanced guidance to help optimize implant positioning based on each patient’s unique anatomy. The technology is designed to support desired surgical outcomes while enhancing the overall patient experience.

OrthoGrid Hip AI offers several key benefits, including:

• Enhanced Precision and Accuracy: The technology uses artificial intelligence to assist surgeons with precise implant placement tailored to each patient’s anatomy.
• Minimally Invasive Approach: Unlike some other surgical guidance systems, OrthoGrid Hip AI does not require additional incisions or hardware placement in the hip or thigh bone.
• Reduced Radiation Exposure: By requiring fewer X-rays during surgery, the technology has the potential to reduce radiation exposure for both patients and surgical teams.
• Surgeon-Controlled Technology: The system is designed to be fully operated by the surgeon, allowing seamless integration into existing total hip replacement procedures.

Orthopaedic surgeons can incorporate the technology into total hip replacement procedures performed through the direct anterior approach, helping provide patients with state-of-the-art care and surgical innovation.

“Anterior Total Hip Replacement has become the standard of care for hip replacement, providing faster recovery with less downtime,” said Wayne McFatter, executive director of surgical services at FirstHealth. “With the incorporation of AI technology, FirstHealth of the Carolinas can be at the forefront of advanced technology.”

FirstHealth offers a full range of diagnostic imaging, a specialized inpatient unit for orthopaedic patients, numerous outpatient rehabilitation clinics, and six fitness centers to help patients get back to the life they enjoy. Our orthopaedic surgeon partners with Pinehurst Surgical Clinic provide a full range of services and many also specialize in one or several areas such as the foot, hand, shoulder, spine, hip or knee, or sports medicine. For more information about orthopaedic services at FirstHealth, visit https://www.firsthealth.org/medical-care/orthopaedics/.