10-KPeriod: FY2002

STRYKER CORP Annual Report, Year Ended Dec 31, 2002

Filed March 14, 2003For Securities:SYK

Summary

Stryker Corporation's 2002 10-K report highlights a strong year of growth, with net sales increasing by 16% to $3,011.6 million. This growth was driven by robust performance in both its Orthopaedic Implants and MedSurg Equipment segments, with particular strength in reconstructive, trauma, and spinal implants, as well as powered surgical instruments and endoscopic systems. The company also successfully integrated several strategic acquisitions, including Surgical Dynamics Inc. (SDI), which expanded its spinal product offerings. Financially, Stryker demonstrated improved profitability, with net earnings up 29% year-over-year, and effective management of expenses, including a decrease in research, development, and engineering as a percentage of sales due to the commercial launch of its OP-1 product. The company's liquidity remains strong, supported by significant cash flow from operations and substantial available borrowing capacity, enabling continued investment in product development and strategic acquisitions.

Key Highlights

  • 1Net sales increased by 16% to $3,011.6 million in 2002, driven by both organic growth and strategic acquisitions.
  • 2Orthopaedic Implants segment sales grew 18%, while MedSurg Equipment sales increased by 13%, demonstrating broad-based strength.
  • 3Successful integration of the Surgical Dynamics Inc. (SDI) spinal implant business acquisition in July 2002, enhancing the company's spinal product portfolio.
  • 4Net earnings saw a significant increase of 29% to $345.6 million, reflecting strong sales growth and operational efficiencies.
  • 5Research, development, and engineering expenses as a percentage of sales decreased to 4.7% from 5.5% due to the commercialization of OP-1, while still supporting new product development.
  • 6The company maintains a strong liquidity position with $37.8 million in cash and equivalents and significant borrowing capacity.
  • 7OP-1 product saw increased adoption, with over 2,000 patients treated worldwide in 2002, a significant increase from previous years, and ongoing clinical trials for spinal indications.

Frequently Asked Questions

Stryker's revenue growth in 2002 was primarily driven by strong shipments in its Orthopaedic Implants and MedSurg Equipment segments, increased unit volume, higher selling prices, and the contribution from acquired businesses, most notably the Surgical Dynamics Inc. (SDI) spinal implant business.

Acquisitions played a significant role, with the July 2002 purchase of SDI adding $25.3 million in sales in the second half of the year and expanding Stryker's spinal implant capabilities. Other acquisitions, like the DEKOMPRESSOR product line, also contributed to product line expansion.

The OP-1 product, a bone growth factor, received Humanitarian Device Exemption (HDE) status in the US for specific recalcitrant long-bone nonunions. Global marketing efforts in 2002 led to over 2,000 patients treated worldwide, a substantial increase, and the company is actively pursuing further clinical trials for spinal indications.

While R&D expenses remained substantial, they decreased as a percentage of sales in 2002 due to the commercial launch of OP-1, where expenses shifted from R&D to cost of sales and SG&A. However, the company continued to invest in new product development across its segments.