SYK · News · 20261030N

Market Demand Trends

STRYKER CORP · 2026-10-30 · Importance 26 · Surprise 24

Stryker reported an unexpected slowdown in U.S. hip and knee replacement procedures, with higher insurance premiums and deductibles and more pre-authorization denials contributing to weaker patient access. In the third quarter, hip sales decreased and knee sales grew only slightly, weighing on Orthopaedics performance. By contrast, reports cited strong MedSurg demand and elevated capital equipment orders, with management highlighting continued demand for capital equipment.

Key facts

• Stryker observed increased pre-authorization denials that created additional friction and delayed patient access to treatment. source
• Stryker's CEO said the company was seeing a market slowdown in Hips and Knees. source
• Stryker reported slower U.S. procedural growth amid affordability concerns from higher insurance premiums and deductibles. source
• Strong MedSurg demand and elevated capital equipment orders supported Stryker's organic growth, while weaker hip and knee procedures, commercial execution challenges and peripheral vascular supply constraints weighed on performance. source