Smith+Nephew steps forward with innovative Sports Medicine foot & ankle repair solutions in Australia and New Zealand

Core Viewpoint - Smith+Nephew has launched a new foot & ankle repair portfolio in Australia and New Zealand, featuring proprietary adjustable tensioning technology that enhances surgical procedures for Achilles reconstruction and lateral ankle instability repair [1][4]. Product Innovation - The ULTRABRIDGE Adjustable Achilles Reconstruction and ULTRABRACE Adjustable Ankle Instability Techniques allow surgeons to adjust suture tension after anchor insertion, optimizing the repair process [1][2]. - The portfolio includes a best-in-class all suture anchor that ensures consistent deployment and strong fixation, now integrated with needles for open procedures [3]. Market Context - The introduction of this technology is particularly relevant in Australia and New Zealand, where over 75% of the population participates in sports and active recreation [4]. - Approximately 230,000 Australians visit General Practitioners annually for ankle sprains or strains, indicating a significant market opportunity for foot & ankle solutions [4]. Company Overview - Smith+Nephew is a global medical technology company focused on the repair, regeneration, and replacement of soft and hard tissue, with annual sales of $5.5 billion in 2023 [6][7]. - The company operates in over 100 countries and aims to restore patients' bodies and self-belief through innovative technologies [6][7].