06 March 2026 | News
Image Courtesy: Public Domain
Golden Valley Memorial Healthcare (GVMH) has achieved a major milestone in orthopedic innovation by completing the first surgery in the world using a new miniature robotic surgical system for knee replacement with expanded implant compatibility.
The groundbreaking procedure was performed by James Womack, MD, Orthopedic Surgeon at Golden Valley Memorial Healthcare, utilizing the THINK Surgical, Inc., TMINI® Miniature Robotic System in combination with the Stryker® Triathlon® Knee System. This achievement positions Golden Valley Memorial Healthcare among a select group of healthcare organizations nationally advancing robotic‑assisted orthopedic care and highlights the organization’s role as an early adopter of emerging surgical technologies.
“This technology represents a meaningful advancement in how we approach knee replacement surgery,” said Dr. James Womack. “The miniature robotic system allows for exceptional precision while maintaining surgeon control and flexibility. Being the first in the world to perform a procedure with this technology and new implant compatibility is significant, but what matters most is how it enhances our ability to deliver high‑quality, personalized care to our patients.”
The miniature robotic platform supports an open approach to implant selection, allowing surgeons to tailor procedures to each patient’s anatomy and clinical needs. Its compact design and advanced planning capabilities are intended to enhance surgical accuracy, efficiency and consistency in the operating room, while supporting individualized surgical decision‑making.
“This milestone reflects our commitment to bringing advanced, leading‑edge care to the communities we serve,” said Craig Thompson, Chief Executive Officer at Golden Valley Memorial Healthcare. “Innovation is not limited by geography. Our patients deserve access to the latest medical advancements, and our physicians and care teams continue to demonstrate what is possible in a rural healthcare setting.”
