Olympus Corporation has acquired FH ORTHO SAS, an international orthopaedic company headquartered in Heimsbrunn, France, following the close of a definitive agreement the two companies signed in the summer of 2020.

The acquisition underscores Olympus’ commitment to expanding in the growing field of orthopaedic minimally invasive surgery (MIS) both organically and through mergers and acquisitions.

By acquiring FH ORTHO, Olympus builds on its portfolio of solutions that are used in MIS procedures in ligament repair, foot & ankle, and trauma surgery.

Olympus is already active in orthopaedics in Japan, where its joint venture Olympus Terumo Biomaterials distributes products such as bone substitutes and high tibial osteotomy (HTO) plates and screws. Beyond this, Olympus has also developed the first ultrasound device indicated for arthroscopic surgery, supporting more accurate and safer cutting of bones.

The acquisition of FH ORTHO will enable Olympus to expand the distribution of both Olympus’ orthopaedic products via FH ORTHO’s existing distribution channels, as well as to sell certain FH ORTHO key products in Japan.

By expanding its distribution network, Olympus will reinforce its position as a leading global medtech company as it continues to innovate and create solutions across all areas of the MIS workflow.

Toshihiko Okubo, senior vice president, new business development, global at Olympus, said: “We are pleased to integrate FH ORTHO’s product portfolio, market reach and talented people to our orthopaedics business. By combining FH ORTHO’s expertise and its excellent business presence with our products and solutions for the minimally invasive orthopaedics surgery, the benefit of our offer to the patients and healthcare professionals will be further enhanced across the world.”

Jean-Marc Idier, CEO of FH ORTHO, added: “The FH ORTHO team very positively welcomes the arrival of Olympus as a recognition of our ongoing efforts and past accomplishments, whilst providing us with new means to accelerate the next phase of our international expansion.”