Stryker to Expand Shoulder Biz with ZuriMED Deal

Stryker began an agreement to acquire ZuriMED, a privately held developer of the FiberLocker system, which is a novel approach to rotator cuff augmentation with more biomechanical strength to address a key clinical failure mode.

Rotator cuff augmentation represents one of the quickest growing sectors of sports medicine and is a strong market opportunity in shoulder care. The deal for ZuriMED bolsters Stryker’s ability to support shoulder specialists in sports medicine and arthroplasty.

FiberLocker reinforces soft tissue, usually tendon, by interweaving patch fibers into tissue. This causes immediate mechanical strength in the repair construct.

During implantation, the instrument’s reciprocating needle pushes implant fibers into the underlying soft tissue, securing the patch across the patch-tendon interface. Lateral patch-to-bone fixation using sutures and anchors completes the construct.

“ZuriMED has developed a differentiated technology that addresses an important clinical need within shoulder care,” said Andy Pierce, Stryker’s group president of MedSurg and Neurotechnology. “We are excited about the opportunity to add the FiberLocker System to Stryker’s portfolio. This acquisition reflects our continued commitment to advancing innovation and improving patient outcomes.”

In July, the company rolled out its Mako RPS (Robotic Power System) for total knee replacement procedures in the U.S. Mako RPS is compatible with the company’s Triathlon total knee system. It boasts intra-operative planning and a robotically enabled saw with patented active adjustment tech, which responds to surgeon hand movements and maintains alignment with the surgical plan in real time.