Is “Enabling Technology” just a buzzword hiding more complexity in orthopedics?

Isn’t all technology supposed to be enabling? Yet, this term is being thrown around to justify adding layers of complexity to already overloaded healthcare systems. Big Ortho companies love it, but disruptive startups don’t use this term.

When we hear “Enabling Technology,” we think of robots, AI, navigation, and AR—tools that claim to help less trained surgeons take on complex cases, essentially allowing them to “punch above their weight.”

But is this really what we need right now, or just an excuse for more unnecessary tech in the OR?

What do you think? tiger@tigerbuford.com