Implanet Partners with 8i Robotics to Evaluate Spinal Surgery Robot in Europe
French spinal implant manufacturer Implanet has entered into a partnership agreement with Canadian firm 8i Robotics Inc., the company announced. This partnership aims to conduct the clinical evaluation of a surgeon-assisted robot to achieve European regulatory compliance for spinal surgery.
Initial Milestone of the Agreement
According to the press release, the first milestone of this agreement focuses on the clinical research necessary to obtain European regulatory compliance for the robotic device. Ludovic Lastennet, CEO of Implanet, states that this partnership positions the company at the heart of clinical evaluation and regulatory registrations in Europe for a robotic solution he describes as unique in the world. He specifies that this commitment should quickly lead to new clinical research agreements with hospital centers in France to finalize the regulatory registration of implantable solutions dedicated to robotics in the European market. Both companies will jointly exhibit at the North American Spine Society convention in Denver, at booth 1037.
Introduction of a Groundbreaking Robotic System
According to the group, in May 2024, 8i Robotics unveiled the world's first multi-arm humanoid surgical robot designed for spine and orthopedic surgery at the annual congress of the American Association of Neurological Surgeons in Chicago. Dr. Brent Bailey, a systems engineer at 8i Robotics, claims that the solution allows precise positioning of implants while reducing complications through accurate navigation in the surgical field. He notes that its compact design, positioned on one side of the operating table, ensures perfect freedom of movement for medical staff and facilitates the integration of intraoperative imaging tools. The device is not yet marketed in Canada, the United States, or Europe, pending regulatory approvals.
Long-Term Strategic Integration
According to the company, this clinical and regulatory partnership is part of Implanet's long-term strategy to incorporate the latest advancements in spinal surgery into its global commercial offerings. The company specifically mentions systems for deformity correction, minimally invasive ranges, robotics, and artificial intelligence. For reference, Implanet employs 46 people and reported consolidated revenue of 9.4 million euros in 2024. Based near Bordeaux, the company has had a subsidiary in Boston since 2013 and entered into a commercial, technological, and financial partnership with Chinese group Sanyou Medical in 2022.
