By Dan Spalding
News Now Warsaw
WARSAW — Medartis, a Swiss-based company with US headquarters in Warsaw, has announced the full acquisition of another Swiss company just days after the US Food and Drug Administration approved a key product developed by the firm.
Medartis currently owns 47 percent of KeriMedical and has steadily increased its ownership of the company, which has two production facilities in France, according to a new release issued Wednesday.
KeriMedical develops and manufactures implants for hand and wrist surgery.
The FDA gave final approval to the KeriMedical TOUCH prosthesis — a thumb implant — on July 10.
The device, already available outside of the United States, is used to treat osteoarthritis of the thumb’s basal joint. The implant provides patients with pain relief while also restoring strength and mobility.
In preparation for the US market launch of the TOUCH thumb prosthesis in early 2026, Medartis has established a comprehensive surgeon training program, designated reference centres, and selected key opinion leaders, the new release said.
The acquisition is valued to be around $99 million.
Globally, KeriMedical has delivered average annual growth of nearly 30% over the past three years, the news release said.
Closing is expected in August, subject to customary closing conditions.
The transaction will immediately contribute positively to Medartis’ sales growth.
Under terms of the agreement, the remaining shares are valued at $99 million in cash in addition to some milestone payments extending through 2027.
“This acquisition is a logical step in our five-year partnership, expanding our capabilities in our core hand & wrist indication. KeriMedical’s distinctive products have contributed to our strong performance in Germany, Austria and the United Kingdom, where we hold the exclusive distribution rights. They are the perfect addition to our comprehensive hand portfolio”, said Matthias Schupp, CEO of Medartis.
KeriMedical will continue operating as a distinct brand within the Medartis Group.
Both co-founders, Dougal Bendjaballah and Bernard Prandi, will remain on the Board of KeriMedical and continue their full commitment and active involvement following the acquisition.
