Stryker to acquire Vertos Medical in strategic move to expand pain management portfolio

Stryker Corporation (NYSE: SYK), a global leader in medical technologies, has taken another significant step in expanding its interventional pain management offerings by announcing the acquisition of Vertos Medical Inc. Vertos Medical, known for its minimally invasive treatments for lumbar spinal stenosis, adds a crucial asset to Stryker’s portfolio with its mild® procedure, which offers a less invasive solution for chronic lower back pain.

The mild® procedure is a breakthrough for patients suffering from lumbar spinal stenosis, a condition that narrows the spinal canal and can cause significant pain and mobility issues. The procedure, which takes less than an hour and involves a tiny incision (smaller than the size of a baby aspirin), removes excess ligament tissue to alleviate nerve pressure and restore space within the spinal canal. This method has gained traction as a preferred early treatment option when traditional therapies, such as physical therapy or pain medication, prove ineffective. Importantly, this procedure is covered by Medicare and Medicare Advantage plans across the United States, making it accessible to a broad patient base.

This acquisition is part of Stryker’s aggressive expansion strategy in 2024, which has already seen the company acquire several other firms, including AI-assisted virtual care company Care.ai, Molli Surgical, Artelon, and SERF SAS. By integrating Vertos Medical’s offerings, Stryker aims to strengthen its position in the minimally invasive surgery market and enhance its presence in ambulatory surgery centers—a critical growth area for the company.

Andy Pierce, Group President of MedSurg and Neurotechnology at Stryker, emphasized the strategic importance of the acquisition, noting that it not only expands their pain management portfolio but also aligns with Stryker’s commitment to improving patient outcomes through innovative, less invasive medical solutions. Eric Wichems, CEO of Vertos Medical, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the opportunity to further improve patients’ quality of life under Stryker’s leadership.

The acquisition is still subject to customary closing conditions, and both companies will continue their operations independently until the transaction is finalized. This move underscores Stryker’s dedication to expanding its interventional solutions and further solidifies its standing as a leader in medical technology.