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While previously the focus of smaller firms and startups, industry giants like DePuy Synthes are putting forth a vision that more closely reflects those of its less influential peers. The implementation of strategies that involve cloud-based solutions, connectivity, and patient data tracking software is a significant step forward in the evolution of 21st-century healthcare. DePuy dipped its toe in this growing digital pool with the 2015 debut of two software systems that track and analyze patient data in real-time, and aim to improve patients’ experience with joint replacement surgery. 

“The emerging field of health tech marries traditional medtech (e.g., medical devices) with state-of-the-art consumer electronics technology, digital marketing, e-commerce, and social media tools to create an entirely new class of products and solutions. Where traditional medtech catered exclusively to physicians and hospital systems, health tech is more likely to be consumer-facing, bringing new tools and technologies directly to patients. It’s also more focused on preventive care, enabling patients to better manage their health before their physical problems advance to a state that can only be treated via an intervention such as surgery,” Josh Makower, M.D., a general partner with venture capital firm New Enterprise Associates, said in EY’s 2015 Pulse of the Industry report.

The digital health trend is joined by more traditional actions that have been reflected in past Top 10 reports—primarily mergers and acquisitions, company splits into separate entities, and a focus on global markets. All of these strategies comprise an overall effort among medtech firms to become one-stop healthcare solutions for doctors and their patients, while ultimately increasing revenue.

Makower added, “Taken together, the improving landscape for traditional medtech and the fast-growing market for new health tech businesses strongly signal an upswing for the medtech sector overall.”

While perusing this year’s report, be on the lookout for less obvious signs of the gradual transition by leading medtech firms to a greater focus on digital health technology, global markets, and related solutions.

Editors’ note: As you read our report, please take note that while the companies are ranked according to sales reported for FY 2015 (though we do provide some 2016 figures to date where possible), some may include non-device sales within a division, such as combination products, drug delivery, software, or device-related services. Not all companies explicitly break out the device portion of total revenues. We consulted numerous public documents and contacted company officials as needed to arrive at the best estimates.

Top 10 Orthopedic Device Companies
1. Stryker Corp.	$9.9 billion
2. DePuy Synthes	$9.3 billion
3. Zimmer Biomet	$6.0 billion
4. Smith & Nephew	$4.7 billion
5. Medtronic Spinal	$2.9 billion
6. DJO Global	$1.1 billion
7. Integra Lifesciences	$883 million
8. NuVasive Inc.	$811 million
9. Globus Medical	$545 million
10. Wright Medical	$415 million