
Charles R. Goulding and Preeti Sulibhavi examine how Stryker’s acquisition of Inari Medical is set to transform vascular care and accelerate advancements in 3D printing technologies for the MedTech industry.
Stryker Corporation, a global leader in medical technology, has announced a definitive agreement to acquire Inari Medical, Inc. for US$80 per share in cash, totaling approximately US$4.9 billion. This strategic acquisition is expected to enhance Stryker’s portfolio, particularly in the treatment of venous thromboembolism (VTE), by integrating Inari’s innovative devices designed for conditions such as deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism.
Inari Medical, founded in 2011, has established itself as a leader in the mechanical thrombectomy market, providing minimally invasive solutions for venous thromboembolism. The company’s devices have been instrumental in advancing patient care by offering effective alternatives to traditional treatments. In its recent quarter, Inari reported a 21% revenue growth, reflecting its strong market position and the increasing demand for its products.
Stryker’s decision to acquire Inari aligns with its strategy to expand its presence in high-growth segments of the medical device industry. Kevin Lobo, Stryker’s Chair and Chief Executive Officer, stated, “The acquisition of Inari expands Stryker’s portfolio to provide life-saving solutions to patients who suffer from peripheral vascular diseases.”

A significant aspect of this acquisition is the potential impact on the 3D printing industry and MedTech innovation. Stryker has been at the forefront of integrating additive manufacturing, commonly known as 3D printing, into medical device production. Since initiating its additive manufacturing journey in 2001, Stryker has developed proprietary technologies to create porous titanium implants that mimic the properties of bone, enhancing osseointegration and patient outcomes.
One of Stryker’s notable achievements in 3D printing is the development of the Tritanium® line of implants. These implants, used in spinal and joint replacement surgeries, feature highly porous structures designed to facilitate bone in-growth. Bone ingrowth after joint replacement refers to the formation of bone within an irregular surface of an implant, improving its integration into bone. It is important for implant fixation and to prevent complications such as aseptic loosening. The time required for bone ingrowth varies depending on the type of implant used.
As of 2022, Stryker reported having 3D printed over two million Tritanium implants since 2013, underscoring the scalability and success of its additive manufacturing efforts.
In addition to implants, Stryker utilizes 3D printing to produce medical models that assist in pre-surgical planning and patient-specific solutions. These models provide sub-millimeter accuracy and can be sterilized for use in the operating room, enhancing surgical precision and outcomes.

Inari Medical’s use of 3D printing is primarily focused on vascular technology. The integration of Inari’s innovative thrombectomy devices with Stryker’s advanced manufacturing capabilities presents opportunities for further innovation. The combination of Inari’s expertise in venous therapies and Stryker’s proficiency in additive manufacturing could lead to the development of next-generation medical devices that are more effective and tailored to patient needs.
The acquisition is anticipated to close by the end of the first quarter of 2025, pending regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions. As the medical device industry continues to evolve, the integration of advanced manufacturing technologies like 3D printing will play a crucial role in driving innovation and improving patient care. Stryker’s acquisition of Inari Medical exemplifies a strategic move to enhance its product offerings and leverage technological advancements to address complex medical conditions.
Below are tables depicting the research and development expense range over the past few years for both Stryker and Inari.


The Research & Development Tax Credit
The now permanent Research and Development (R&D) Tax Credit is available for companies developing new or improved products, processes and/or software.
3D printing can help boost a company’s R&D Tax Credits. Wages for technical employees creating, testing and revising 3D printed prototypes are typically eligible expenses toward the R&D Tax Credit. Similarly, when used as a method of improving a process, time spent integrating 3D printing hardware and software can also be an eligible R&D expense. Lastly, when used for modeling and preproduction, the costs of filaments consumed during the development process may also be recovered.
Whether it is used for creating and testing prototypes or for final production, 3D printing is a great indicator that R&D Credit-eligible activities are taking place. Companies implementing this technology at any point should consider taking advantage of R&D Tax Credits.
Conclusion
Stryker’s acquisition of Inari Medical signifies a significant development in the MedTech industry, with potential implications for the advancement of 3D printing technologies in medical device manufacturing. By combining their respective strengths, Stryker and Inari are poised to deliver innovative solutions that improve patient outcomes and set new standards in the treatment of vascular diseases.