Durham Region is now home to Canada’s most advanced orthopaedic robotic technology. On July 30, 2026, Lakeridge Health launched its new Stryker 4.0 Orthopaedic Robotics Platform at Ajax Pickering Hospital, where Orthopaedic Surgeon, Dr. Kaj Ravichandiran, became the first surgeon in Canada to perform a joint replacement using the groundbreaking system, establishing a new national benchmark for orthopaedic innovation.
The introduction of this next-generation technology has been made possible through the extraordinary generosity of the Jeremiah F. Coughlan Foundation, which donated $2 million to the Ajax Pickering Hospital Foundation to support the purchase of Lakeridge Health’s first orthopaedic robot. Held just days before what would have been Jerry Coughlan’s 90th birthday, this milestone honours one of Durham Region’s most generous philanthropists.
“Jerry believed deeply in giving back to the community he loved and helped build, wanting future generations to be healthy and vibrant,” said Lyn Dunlop-Coughlan, Jerry Coughlan’s widow and one of the trustees of the Jeremiah F. Coughlan Foundation. “We often say we are the Uber drivers of Jerry’s generosity because he spent his lifetime working hard to build a great business and was glad to share his success. We also hope his example inspires others to experience the joy of giving and the excitement of helping transform bold ideas into better health care for Durham Region and beyond.”
Lakeridge Health’s Surgical Robotics Program began in 2022 with the launch of the da Vinci Surgical System at Oshawa Hospital, made possible through the generosity of donors to Lakeridge Health Foundation (supporting the Oshawa and Whitby Hospitals). Since its launch through to the end of June 2026, more than 1,055 robotic-assisted procedures have been completed across urology, thoracic surgery, gynecology, colorectal surgery and general surgery, demonstrating how advanced technology and clinical innovation are transforming surgical care across Durham Region.
The new 4.0 orthopaedic robotics platform builds on that success by expanding robotic-assisted surgery to include both primary and complex revision joint replacement procedures. By introducing this technology, Lakeridge Health has become the first organization in Canada to offer this advanced platform, further strengthening its leadership in surgical innovation.
“Robotic-assisted orthopaedic surgery combines the expertise of our surgical teams with advanced technology to help us plan and perform joint replacement procedures with an even greater level of precision,” said Dr. Ravichandiran. “For our patients, that means personalized care, greater surgical accuracy, and the potential for an improved recovery experience.”
“The launch of our Orthopaedic Robotics Program is another important step in our commitment to Innovation and Technology for Better Care, one of the four strategic directions in our 2026–2031 Strategic Plan,” noted Cynthia Davis, President and Chief Executive Officer, Lakeridge Health. “We are deeply grateful to the Jeremiah F. Coughlan Foundation, the Ajax Pickering Hospital Foundation, and everyone whose partnership has made this historic day possible.”
“Jerry Coughlan believed everyone deserved access to exceptional health care close to home, and his generosity continues to make that vision a reality,” said Steven Cook, Chief Executive Officer, Ajax Pickering Hospital Foundation. “This transformational gift will benefit patients for generations while helping ensure our community has access to the very best in surgical innovation.”
A week before, the three trustees were invited into the Operating Suite for a demonstration of the robot as well as to meet many of the staff who will be working with it. And also joined us to celebrate the inaugural surgical procedure with the whole surgical team. Click here to see photos from these two great events.
