FTC Approves Final Order Preserving Competition in U.S. Markets for Two Types of Orthopedic Devices

Following a public comment period, the Federal Trade Commission has approved a final order settling charges that the $3.3 billion merger between Wright Medical Group, Inc. and Tornier N.V. would likely be anticompetitive.

Under the order, first announced in September 2015, the companies are required to sell Tornier’s U.S. rights and assets to its total ankle replacement products and total silastic toe joint replacement products–including intellectual property, manufacturing technology, and existing inventory–to Integra Lifesciences Corporation.

The Commission vote approving the final order was 4-0. (FTC File No. 151 0018; the staff contact is Aylin M. Skroejer, Bureau of Competition, 202-326-2459)

The FTC’s Bureau of Competition works with the Bureau of Economics to investigate alleged anticompetitive business practices and, when appropriate, recommends that the Commission take law enforcement action. To inform the Bureau about particular business practices, call 202-326-3300, send an e-mail to antitrust@ftc.gov, or write to the Office of Policy and Coordination, Bureau of Competition, Federal Trade Commission, 600 Pennsylvania Ave., Room CC-5422, Washington, DC 20580. To learn more about the Bureau of Competition, read Competition Counts. Like the FTC on Facebook, follow us on Twitter, and subscribe to press releases for the latest FTC news and resources.