FirstHealth adds AI technology for hip replacement surgery

October 16, 2026 - 07:10

PINEHURST - FirstHealth of the Carolinas has expanded its orthopedic surgery capabilities with the addition of new artificial intelligence technology designed to improve precision and consistency during total hip replacement procedures.

The system uses detailed imaging and computer assisted planning to help surgeons map each patient's anatomy before the operation begins. During surgery, the technology provides real time feedback, allowing the care team to position implants with a higher degree of accuracy. Hospital officials say the goal is to support more predictable outcomes and reduce the chance of complications that can lead to revision surgery later on.

Surgeons at the health system note that every patient's hip joint is different, and traditional methods sometimes leave room for variation. The new tool is meant to address that problem by combining preoperative data with intraoperative guidance. Patients are expected to benefit from better alignment, which can translate into improved mobility and a smoother recovery period.

The addition reflects a broader push among regional hospitals to adopt advanced tools that support surgical teams without replacing their judgment. FirstHealth plans to evaluate results over time and consider whether the same approach can be used for other joint replacement procedures in the future.