Johnson & Johnson is Deploying AI Technology to Supercharge the Surgical Supply Chain

Even before the COVID-19 pandemic, joint replacement surgeries were a complex matter. However, staffing shortages, supply chain disruption, and restricted access brought about by the pandemic have further impacted efficient case coordination.

Pharmaceutical giant, Johnson & Johnson has developed an Advanced Case Management [ACM] platform which uses a combination of image based and artificial intelligence algorithms to predict the product range most likely to be required for a primary joint replacement surgery.

“Because ACM digitizes the process, there are fewer touchpoints focused on logistics and there's more time spent supporting customer needs and patient care,” said Head of Supply Chain Customer Solutions at Johnson & Johnsons, Jean Nycz. “We can predict the sizes of implants required with an accuracy level in the 90%-plus range, plus or minus one size for knee surgeries. Knowing the most likely sizes has fuelled a more efficient operating room for surgeons and alleviated some pain points during such an unprecedented time.”

Because of these innovations, more joint replacements can be performed at ambulatory surgery centres, reducing the pressure on hospitals during these critical times.