It is worth noting that,The transaction facilitated the establishment of a new company named VB Spine, LLC (VB Spine)., marking the official implementation of the business restructuring plan announced by Stryker in January. Previously, Stryker had stated that, apart from the US market, its international spinal implants business would also be gradually divested.

From Stryker's 2024 financial report, it can be seen that its spinal implant business is no longer contributing to the company's revenue. The report shows that in 2024, its spinal implant business revenue was $707 million (a year-over-year decrease of 0.7%).The U.S. spinal implant business declined by 2.1% year-over-year.

The specific financial terms of this transaction were not disclosed. In a statement at the beginning of the year, Stryker pointed out that this divestiture "will enable both parties to focus more on meeting the needs of customers and patients, and is expected to accelerate business growth and create greater value for all stakeholders."

According to the agreement, after the transaction is completed,VB Spine will be Stryker's strategic partner.Obtained exclusive rights to use the Mako Spine system and its Copilot system for VB Spine's implants in spinal surgeries.

Kevin Lobo, Chairman and CEO of Stryker, stated, "Through our interventional spine product line, neuromodulation technology platform, and enabling technology business, as well as the strategic collaboration with VB Spine, we will continue to be deeply engaged in the spine care field. We sincerely appreciate the historical contributions of the spine business team and believe they will continue to create value on the new platform."

It is worth noting that this transaction comes at a time when competition in orthopedic robotics technology is intensifying. Stryker's retained Mako robotic technology already covers the joint replacement field, and the authorization granted to VB Spine to use its spinal version technology may become an important strategic move to seize the commanding heights of a niche market.