DePuy Synthes, part of Johnson & Johnson, has unveiled the US commercial launch of VELYS Hip Navigation with AI Assistance, a next-generation surgical platform designed to bring artificial intelligence into total hip replacement procedures.

 

The system, powered by the VELYS Hub, introduces AI-driven automation for intraoperative imaging, landmark detection, and real-time surgical guidance. The company says the goal is to improve consistency and efficiency in total hip arthroplasty (THA) as demand for the procedure continues to surge.

 

THA volumes are projected to reach approximately 850,000 procedures annually in the U.S. by 2030, a 129% increase from 2014, intensifying pressure on operating rooms to deliver faster, more standardized workflows.

 

Early performance data highlights a major efficiency gain: use of VELYS Hip Navigation with AI Assistance demonstrated reproducible landmark identification and reduced workflow time by 57% compared to manual workflows (5.33 vs. 2.27 minutes).

 

The platform automates image interpretation and provides patient-specific, real-time insights including leg length, offset, and cup positioning. The AI model is trained on geographically diverse, deidentified clinical datasets and operates within a human-in-the-loop framework, ensuring surgeons retain final control over anatomical decisions.

 

“The introduction of VELYS™ Hip Navigation with AI Assistance advances our commitment to delivering data-driven technologies that support surgeon decision-making and procedural consistency,” said Sharrolyn Josse, Global President, Joint Reconstruction, DePuy Synthes. 

 

“This solution is designed to streamline workflows and reduce complexity by providing real-time, patient-specific insights. It is not simply an update to VELYS Hip Navigation; it is the next generation of the platform, built to keep control in the surgeon’s hands.”

 

Built on the VELYS Hub hardware, the system features a 32-inch 4K monitor, expanded viewing area, GPU-optimized architecture, and integrated C-arm connectivity designed to deliver real-time intraoperative insights and faster data access in the operating room.

 

“In total hip arthroplasty, achieving consistent implant positioning and restoring patient specific biomechanics are critical to long term success,” said Christopher N. Johnson, Ortho Northeast. 

 

“Technologies such as VELYS™ Hip Navigation with AI Assistance have the potential to help reduce variability, improve intraoperative efficiency and workflow, and support surgeon decision making and control in the operating room.”

 

DePuy Synthes says the platform is part of a broader push to integrate digital and AI-enabled tools across orthopaedic surgery, aiming to standardize outcomes while preserving surgeon autonomy in increasingly high-volume operating environments.