Lakeridge Health Brings Canada's Most Advanced Orthopedic Robotic Technology to Durham Region

AJAX, ON – July 30, 2026 – Durham Region is now home to Canada's most advanced orthopedic robotic technology. Today, Lakeridge Health launched its new Stryker 4.0 Orthopedic Robotics Platform at Ajax Pickering Hospital, where Orthopedic 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 orthopedic 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 orthopedic robot. Held just days before what would have been Jerry Coughlan's 90th birthday, today's 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 orthopedic 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 orthopedic 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 Orthopedic 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." 

Learn more about Surgical Services at Lakeridge Health on the organization’s website.  

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About Ajax Pickering Hospital Foundation 

The Ajax Pickering Hospital Foundation strives to help save lives, restore health and provide compassionate care by raising funds that directly benefit the patients at the Ajax Pickering Hospital and the Jerry Coughlan Health & Wellness Centre, as well as the residents of Lakeridge Gardens Long-Term Care Home. 

About Lakeridge Health  

Lakeridge Health is one of Ontario’s most comprehensive health systems, with five hospitals, four emergency departments, three critical care units, a long-term care home, a state-of-the-art, community-based surgical centre, and more than 30 community-based locations delivering acute, ambulatory, and long-term care. We are home to leading regional programs in cancer care, chronic kidney disease services, and critical care. In addition, we offer specialty services such as a Level 3 Trauma Centre, The Shoulder Centre, thoracic surgery, gynecology oncology, eye care, and a full continuum of mental health and addictions care. Through transformative research, dynamic academic partnerships, and over 160 active clinical studies, we are advancing medical knowledge and training the next generation of providers through the Queen’s–Lakeridge Health MD Family Medicine Program and the LHEARN Network. Supported by nearly 9,000 staff, physicians, and volunteers, and working in collaboration with the Durham Ontario Health Team and community partners, we are committed to building an integrated system of care and empowering people across Durham Region to live their best health.  

For more information contact:  

Jennifer R. Collins 

Director, Philanthropic Operations 

Ajax Pickering Hospital Foundation 

aphfoundation@lh.ca  

Lakeridge Health Strategic Communications Media 

communications@lh.ca