Nov. 03, 2026
Covenant Health’s Parkwest Medical Center has performed Tennessee’s first robotic-assisted ROSA® Shoulder System procedure, expanding access to advanced shoulder replacement technology for patients across the region. The procedure was performed by Justin Kennon, MD, a Mayo Clinic fellowship-trained orthopedic surgeon specializing in shoulder care.
ROSA’s technology supports personalized surgical planning and implant positioning using advanced imaging and real-time information. While the system helps guide the procedure, the doctor maintains control of all surgical decisions.
“Every patient is unique and every shoulder is different,” Dr. Kennon said. “ROSA Shoulder allows us to create a more personalized surgical plan based on each patient’s anatomy. The technology provides valuable information that helps us perform shoulder replacements with greater precision while keeping the patient at the center of every decision we make.”
Parkwest Medical Center is one of only 15 centers worldwide to perform a robotic-assisted ROSA Shoulder replacement and among the first hospitals in the Southeast to bring the technology to patients. This milestone reflects Covenant Health’s continued investment in orthopedic and innovative care throughout the region.
“Being the first hospital in Tennessee to offer robotic ROSA Shoulder technology is an exciting milestone for Parkwest Medical Center,” said Devan Johnson, president and chief administrative officer of Parkwest Medical Center. “Our goal is to continually invest in technologies that enhance patient care and support our physicians. This advancement helps ensure patients in East Tennessee have access to some of the nation’s most advanced orthopedic care close to home.”
Before surgery, a CT scan creates a three-dimensional model of the shoulder, helping the surgeon develop the tailored plan. During surgery, ROSA Shoulder provides real-time information to support implant positioning and execution of the surgical plan.
For patients experiencing chronic shoulder pain, everyday activities such as reaching overhead, getting dressed or sleeping comfortably can become difficult. Shoulder replacement surgery can help these patients reduce pain, restore mobility and improve quality of life.
“What excites me most is the opportunity to combine surgical experience with advanced technology to make shoulder replacement more precise and more personalized,” Dr. Kennon said. “Technology is never the end goal. Better patient care is. ROSA Shoulder gives us another way to personalize care and help patients return to the activities that are important to them.”
People experiencing shoulder pain can schedule an appointment with Dr. Kennon to learn more about treatment options and orthopedic care at Parkwest Medical Center.
The addition of ROSA Shoulder technology is part of Covenant Health’s broader strategy to expand advanced services while making care more convenient and accessible for local families.
“Our patients should not have to leave East Tennessee to receive advanced treatment options,” Johnson said. “When we invest in leading technology and exceptional physicians, we help ensure patients can receive outstanding care, supported by the people and communities they know and trust.”
Learn more about Covenant Health services or call 865-374-0411.
About Covenant Health
Covenant Health is a Tennessee-based healthcare enterprise committed to providing the right care at the right time and place. As a not-for-profit health system, we are dedicated to being the region’s premier healthcare network through service, community and innovation. We provide patient-centered care that inspires clinical and service excellence and strive to be the first and best choice for our patients, employees, physicians, employers, volunteers and communities. Covenant Health is the area’s largest employer and has more than 14,000 compassionate caregivers, expert clinicians and dedicated employees and volunteers. Learn more at CovenantHealth.com.
Bailey Ly
