Zimmer Biomet Expands Robotics Portfolio with $177M Monogram Acquisition

Zimmer Biomet, a leading orthopedics company, has announced plans to acquire Monogram Technologies for approximately $177 million, signaling a significant expansion of its surgical robotics capabilities. The deal, expected to close by the end of 2025, aims to bolster Zimmer Biomet's position in the rapidly evolving field of autonomous orthopedic surgery.

Monogram's mBôs Robot: A Leap Towards Autonomous Surgery

At the heart of this acquisition is Monogram's mBôs robotic system, which received FDA clearance in March 2025 for total knee replacement surgeries. The mBôs platform utilizes CT scans and AI navigation to offer semi-autonomous capabilities, with plans for a fully autonomous version in the near future.

Ivan Tornos, President and CEO of Zimmer Biomet, emphasized the strategic importance of this acquisition, stating, "Monogram's technology is a major leap forward, demonstrating our commitment to becoming the boldest and broadest innovator in surgical robotics and navigation."

The mBôs system is slated for commercial launch with Zimmer Biomet's Persona knee implants in early 2027. Monogram is also developing a fully autonomous version of the robot, operated by foot pedals, with an anticipated launch in late 2027 or early 2028.

Expanding the Robotics Ecosystem

Zimmer Biomet's acquisition of Monogram is part of a broader strategy to offer a comprehensive suite of surgical robotics solutions. The company's existing Rosa robot, which has nearly 2,000 installations worldwide, will be complemented by the mBôs system, providing surgeons with a range of options from simplified navigation to fully autonomous robots.

The orthopedics firm is also working on expanding its robotics capabilities across various procedures. Recent developments include:

• FDA clearance for Rosa in robot-assisted shoulder replacements, with a full launch planned for early 2026
• Development of a posterior hip feature for Rosa, targeted for the second half of 2026
• Integration of CT imaging capabilities for Rosa, expected in early 2027

Industry Reactions and Future Outlook

While the acquisition has been met with general optimism, some analysts have raised questions about the deal. Mike Matson of Needham questioned the level of surgeon interest in a fully automated robotics system, while Ryan Zimmerman of BTIG noted the high price for a system that has not yet sold any units.

Despite these concerns, Zimmer Biomet remains confident in the potential of the Monogram acquisition. The company views this as an opportunity to define the fully autonomous category of robotics and appeal to surgeons who prefer autonomous cutting over manual techniques.

As the orthopedic surgery landscape continues to evolve, Zimmer Biomet appears poised for further expansion. Analysts suggest that the company may pursue additional acquisitions in high-growth areas such as data/AI, enabling technologies, sports medicine, and extremities.

With this latest move, Zimmer Biomet aims to solidify its position at the forefront of orthopedic surgical innovation, potentially redefining the standard of care in the field.