Global sales for arthroscopy and sports medicine devices are predicted to hit $6.5bn by 2021. This will be driven by the fast-growing soft tissue fixation products segment: significant changes in market dynamics are expected over the next few years, as hip fixation procedures pick up pace. This article delves into the landscape of the soft tissue fixation device market, as well as the four key segments in the arthroscopy devices space. It will also analyze the key players in these markets, highlight trends and discuss the biggest challenges.

Story and Podcast: Teleflex Medical launched in March a novel portfolio of miniaturized percutaneous surgical instruments that have the same functionality as full-sized laparoscopic instruments, but allow surgeons to access the abdominal cavity using trocar-less entry and much smaller incisions than those required in traditional laparoscopy. Teleflex execs say the technology is a game changer, and the company hopes percutaneous laparoscopy will become the standard of care for the 4 million laparoscopic procedures performed annually in the US.

Rep. Mike Fitzpatrick, R-Pa., is asking FDA's criminal office to investigate whether Ethicon and several East Coast hospitals fulfilled safety reporting requirements for power morcellators, which have been linked to a risk of spreading cancer in women undergoing treatment for uterine fibroids.

Five FDA medical device close-out letters were released in June.