Stryker has acquired NICO corporation, a privately-held company that offers a systematic approach to minimally invasive surgery for tumor and intracerebral hemorrhage (ICH) procedures.
 
The acquisition, according to Stryker, strengthens the company’s commitment to neurotechnology through tumor and stroke care. NICO’s technologies integrate imaging and intervention to provide a safe, minimally disruptive approach to brain surgery.
 
The company’s BrainPath products enable trans-sulcal access through the subcortical space. It creates an opening about the size of a dime, with an atraumatic tip to minimize tissue disruption. The NICO Myriad SPECTRA enables automated brain tumor removal and clot evacuation. It can toggle between white and blue excitation lights to assist in fluorescence-guided surgical resections.
 
The company also touts an Automated Preservation System to standardize intra-operative tissue collection and biological preservation, without needing a dedicated OR employee to manage the process.
 
“The acquisition of NICO Corporation expands Stryker’s portfolio of solutions for tumor resection and the treatment of intracerebral hemorrhage, the deadliest form of stroke,” said Andy Pierce, group president, MedSurg and Neurotechnology, Stryker. “As a global leader in neurosurgical access and removal tools, this strategic addition enables us to deliver differentiated, minimally invasive approaches that will drive meaningful outcomes and improve the lives of patients worldwide.”
 
Earlier this week, Stryker completed the acquisition of care.ai, a privately-held company that specializes in delivering artificial intelligence (AI)-assisted virtual care workflows, smart room technology, and ambient intelligence solutions.