GlobalData : Patent filings signal steady upward trajectory in intra-operative surgical guidance landscape, reveals GlobalData

Philips' new LumiGuide, powered by fiber optic real shape (FORS) technology, enables X-ray radiation-free minimally invasive surgery, marking a significant advancement in intra-operative surgical guidance. Though still in its nascent stages, the landscape of innovation as captured through patent filings is showing a consistent upward trajectory. This is especially evident with corporations filing an increased number of patents since 2019, according to Technology Foresights, a proprietary framework developed by GlobalData, a leading data and analytics company.

Taking a closer look at intra-operative surgical guidance technology through the lens of innovation using Technology Foresights brings out some interesting facts. A notable aspect is that patent filings for intra-operative surgical guidance have experienced a compound annual growth rate of 12% in the past three years. Moreover, the intra-operative surgical guidance patent landscape has seen the entry of over 50 new companies since 2019.

Rahul Kumar Singh, Senior Analyst of Disruptive Tech at GlobalData, comments: "The innovation landscape of intra-operative surgical guidance is characterized by a strong presence of established firms such as Philips, which hold strong patent portfolios. At the same time, new entrants and startups are bringing fresh momentum, creating a dynamic environment for growth and development. Academic institutions are also pitching in by contributing valuable research. This interplay between incumbents, innovators, and researchers is shaping a competitive and forward-moving market."

Philips' range of innovations, as featured on the Technology Foresights platform, includes developments like AI-enhanced EHR, clinical decision support systems, and interfaces for surgical robots. Moreover, GlobalData's platform provides a window into Philips' strategic moves, such as the acquisition of the Healthcare IT business from Carestream by Royal Philips.

Stryker is another company that has made notable progress in intra-operative surgical guidance, creating the Q Guidance System with Cranial Guidance Software. This system facilitates detailed planning and precise guidance for brain surgeries, offering surgeons enhanced assurance when undertaking intricate procedures in the brain. Approved by the FDA for cranial use, it is set to make significant improvements in cranial surgery techniques.

However, Philips distinguishes itself from Stryker in intra-operative surgical guidance through its LumiGuide system, which offers a wide range of applications, compared to the cranial-specific focus of Stryker. While Stryker's technology is tailored for cranial surgeries with precise planning and navigation, Philips' LumiGuide integrates with a broader suite of healthcare technologies, supporting a diverse array of surgical procedures.

Singh concludes: "The recent developments by Philips and Stryker point to a changing landscape in intra-operative surgical guidance. Philips' LumiGuide and Stryker's Q Guidance System exemplify the industry's move towards more precise and specialized technologies, suggesting improved patient care and surgical effectiveness. As the race for leadership in this field intensifies, collaborations between established industry giants and emerging innovators are likely to accelerate the advancement and adoption of advanced surgical technologies in the coming years."