Constellation Energy and Vistra stock surge after PJM capacity auction results
PORTAGE, Mich. - Stryker Corporation (NYSE:SYK), a $150 billion market cap leader in medical technology with annual revenues exceeding $23 billion, has announced the FDA 510(k) clearance of its OptaBlate basivertebral nerve ablation system (BVN). According to InvestingPro data, the company maintains a "GREAT" financial health score, positioning it well for continued innovation in the medical device sector. Designed to alleviate chronic vertebrogenic low back pain, OptaBlate BVN represents a minimally invasive option for patients who have exhausted other treatments without obtaining long-term relief.
The system is poised to join Stryker’s portfolio of pain management solutions, leveraging the company’s expertise in radiofrequency ablation technology and vertebral access. As an InvestingPro Tip highlights, Stryker is a prominent player in the Healthcare Equipment & Supplies industry, with impressive revenue growth of nearly 11% over the last twelve months. The procedure specifically targets the basivertebral nerve, which has been identified as a source of chronic lumbar pain in certain patients with specific MRI findings.
According to Dr. Jad Khalil, a Spine Surgeon at Michigan Orthopaedic Surgeons, the basivertebral nerve ablation (BVNA) procedure offers a significant improvement for patients, potentially helping them avoid more invasive treatments like surgery. The system’s key features include the ability to create a 1 cm lesion in seven minutes, a steerable curved introducer for precise targeting, and microinfusion technology that maintains hydration to reduce errors and prevent tissue charring during the procedure.
Kristen Berg, vice president and general manager of Stryker’s Interventional Spine business, emphasized the company’s commitment to innovative pain reduction solutions. The OptaBlate BVN system is set to be introduced at the American Society of Pain & Neuroscience (ASPN) Annual Meeting, taking place from July 17-20 in Miami, FL.
Stryker’s dedication to improving healthcare outcomes is reflected in its extensive product offerings across various medical specialties. The company’s impact is global, affecting over 150 million patients each year. Currently trading near its 52-week high, Stryker shows strong market confidence, though InvestingPro analysis suggests the stock may be overvalued at current levels. Discover 15+ additional exclusive ProTips and comprehensive financial analysis in the Pro Research Report, available to InvestingPro subscribers.
The OptaBlate BVN system is based on evidence suggesting that patients treated with BVNA experience sustained benefits in pain and function for up to five years. This news article is based on a press release statement from Stryker.
In other recent news, Stryker Corporation reported robust earnings for the first quarter of 2025, surpassing analysts’ expectations with an adjusted earnings per share (EPS) of $2.84, exceeding the forecast of $2.71. Revenues also outperformed, reaching $5.9 billion against an anticipated $5.68 billion. The company has raised its organic sales growth forecast for the year to a range of 8.5% to 9.5%, reflecting strong performance in its MedSurg and Orthopedics divisions. Despite the positive results, Stryker adjusted its EPS guidance to a range of $13.20 to $13.45 for the year, down from the previous range, due to anticipated tariff impacts and other cost pressures.
In corporate developments, Stryker’s shareholders approved amendments to several incentive plans, increasing the number of shares available and extending their duration. Additionally, the company announced a 5% increase in its quarterly dividend to $0.84 per share, payable in July 2025. Analyst activity includes UBS raising its price target for Stryker to $421 while maintaining a Neutral rating, citing strong sales and earnings performance. Conversely, Evercore ISI lowered its price target to $390 but kept an Outperform rating, highlighting the company’s impressive revenue growth.
Stryker’s innovative product launches, such as the Mako Spine and Mako Shoulder, are anticipated to drive future growth, with the company emphasizing its focus on expanding international market presence. Despite the challenges posed by tariffs, Stryker remains committed to its strategic initiatives and operational efficiencies to mitigate potential impacts.
This article was generated with the support of AI and reviewed by an editor. For more information see our T&C.