Stryker Unveils Market’s First Reusable Suture Passer for Arthroscopic Rotator Cuff Repair

Stryker Corp. today launched its new reusable suture passing technology for use in rotator cuff repair, Cobra.  This first-of-its-kind technology leverages novel needle manufacturing and a jaw design to produce the first reusable needle technology. 

The unveiling occurred at the American Academy of Orthopaedic Surgeons 2018 Annual Meeting in New Orleans, La.
 
Compared to other suture passers on the market, Cobra offers improved needle stiffness to address issues associated with intraoperative misfires and distal tip needle breakages. In addition, the value-based robust needle technology offers customers a more cost-effective solution. This suture passer utilizes technology that Stryker acquired from Arthrogenx LLC in 2017. 
 
“We are excited about the launch of the Cobra technology because it provides a unique opportunity for us to significantly increase clinical performance from the current standard of care, while also reducing cost to customers,” said Matt Moreau, Stryker’s Sports Medicine vice president and general manager.  “We recognize that our customers will continue to be under tremendous pressure to increase quality while also reducing cost.  Launching the Cobra passer will allow Stryker to better partner with our customers and align with their financial objectives while also improving patient safety.”  
 
Stryker is showcasing its latest technologies, including Cobra, at the AAOS meeting this week, which runs through March 10.
 
Stryker is one of the world’s leading medical technology companies and, together with its customers, is driven to make healthcare better. The Kalamazoo, Mich.-based company offers products and services in Orthopaedics, Medical and Surgical, and Neurotechnology and Spine that help improve patient and hospital outcomes.