Innovation in Orthopedics: Part 1-Design Thinking

Abstract

Purpose of review: This narrative will focus on the adoption of design thinking to improve patient-centered care innovation in Orthopedics.

Recent findings: The literature reveals a complete set of applications of the design thinking approach in the different stages of the patient experience throughout the health context; however, the papers identified focus on specific parts of the process, and there is no systemic analysis about the different aspects involved in each stage of the complete experience. This review presents a holistic analysis concerning the application of design thinking to the distinct phases of innovation development in orthopedics, from the identification of the specific initial challenges up to the introduction of technology-based artifacts, such as innovations in the musculoskeletal health market. Systematic description of design thinking application to orthopedics, including concepts, methods, tools, and implementation examples in the most relevant phases of the patient experience-clinical treatment, perioperative care, and rehabilitation.

Keywords: Design thinking; Immersion; Innovation; Patient experience; Prototyping.