Stryker exiting spinal implant business

Stryker announced a definitive agreement to sell its U.S. spinal implants business to Viscogliosi Brothers LLC, a family-owned investment firm specializing in the neuro-musculoskeletal space, to create a newly formed company called VB Spine, LLC.

“We believe that the spinal implants business, with its comprehensive portfolio and strong sales channel, will thrive as an independent company," says Kevin A. Lobo, chair and chief executive officer, Stryker. "With dedicated resources and a focused strategy, the business will be well positioned to succeed as part of Viscogliosi Brothers.”

After closing, VB Spine will become a strategic partner to Stryker with exclusive access to Mako Spine and Copilot for use with VB Spine’s implants in spine procedures. The transaction will enhance the focus of both Stryker and VB Spine to meet the needs of customers and their patients and is expected to achieve faster growth and deliver greater value for all stakeholders.

“We have long admired Stryker for its comprehensive spine portfolio, incredible talent, and strong culture,” says Marc, John, and Anthony Viscogliosi, co-founders of Viscogliosi Brothers, LLC. “We see a tremendous opportunity to provide the focus, surgeon-centric innovation, and commercial execution needed to grow the business and further impact patient lives and outcomes.”

The definitive agreement also includes a binding offer to acquire Stryker’s spinal implants business in France, subject to required consultations with employees and/or employee representatives. The sale of Stryker’s spinal implants business in other international markets is anticipated, pending satisfaction of legal and regulatory requirements, including any required consultations. The transaction is expected to close in the U.S. in the first half of 2025, subject to customary closing conditions. Stryker’s U.S. spinal implants business and VB Spine will continue to operate as separate entities and proceed with business as usual until the transaction closes.

In connection with the transaction, Barings LLC is an investor and financial partner to Viscogliosi Brothers.