The U.S. is at the forefront of orthopedic innovation as healthcare hubs on the East and West coasts carry out new research and develop groundbreaking products. Beyond those two centers, Salt Lake City in Utah is home to Ortho Development, a company that brings together American innovation and Japanese demand.
The company started in 1994 with the idea to develop joint replacement technology that would enhance mobility for people suffering from arthritis and help them return to the activities they love most.
“Worldwide, orthopedic surgeons view American technology and innovation as being the gold standard. Our product development focuses on taking the best, clinically proven implant designs and making evolutionary refinements,” explained CEO Brent Bartholomew.
Tokyo-based Japan Medical Dynamic Marketing, Inc. (JMDM) is the company’s majority owner and distributor in Japan. Led by Masao Okawa, JMDM is the largest self funded Japanese orthopedic company and is listed on the Tokyo Stock Exchange (7600).
Ortho Development’s model has succeeded in Japan partly because Japanese surgeons value American technology and the association with JMDM.
“What sets us apart is our commitment to develop products specifically for the Japanese market, using the latest in materials and technology. There is also a definite cultural closeness between Ortho Development, JMDM and our surgeon customers in Japan,” Bartholomew said.
