Smith & Nephew completes acquisition of surgical robotics business Blue Belt Technologies

Smith & Nephew, the global medical technology business, announces it hascompleted the acquisition of Blue Belt Holdings, Inc. Securing a leading position in the fast-growing area of orthopaedic robotics-assisted surgery.

Blue Belt Technologies' Navio surgical system currently provides robotics-assistance in unicondylar or partial knee replacement surgery through CT-free navigation software and a unique hand-held, robotic bone-shaping device. Navio and Smith & Nephew's partial knee implant portfolio form a strong combined business from which to accelerate growth in this attractive area of surgery. Additionally, the Group intends to expand the Navio platform into total knee, bi-cruciate retaining knee and revision knee implants, delivering significant further upside.

About Smith & Nephew

Smith & Nephew is a global medical technology business dedicated to helping healthcare professionals improve people's lives. With leadership positions in Orthopaedic Reconstruction, Advanced Wound Management, Sports Medicine and Trauma & Extremities, Smith & Nephew has around 14,000 employees and a presence in more than 100 countries. Annual sales in 2014 were more than $4.6 billion. Smith & Nephew is a member of the FTSE100 (LSE:SN, NYSE:SNN).

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