Alphatec Spine Acquires SafeOp Surgical

Alphatec Holdings Inc., a provider of spine surgery solutions with a mission to improve patient lives through the relentless pursuit of superior outcomes, announced that it has acquired SafeOp Surgical Inc. SafeOp is a privately-held provider of advanced neuromonitoring technology designed to prevent the intraoperative risk of nerve injury with automated assessment that obviates the need for a technician or other neuromonitoring professional in most surgeries. The company also announced a $50 million capital raise, the proceeds of which were used, in part, to fund the acquisition. 
 
Additionally, the company announced several leadership updates. Pat Miles has assumed the role of CEO. Terry Rich has been appointed president and chief operating officer. Both will retain their existing Board positions. Dr. Luiz Pimenta has been appointed Chief Medical Officer.
 
SafeOp has developed patented technology that automates SSEP’s (Somatosensory Evoked Potentials), designed to provide surgeons with unprecedented, objective feedback during surgery.
 
“This strategic acquisition of SafeOp marks a transformational moment for the new ATEC,” said Pat Miles. “Our answer to the need for better neuromonitoring is investing in technology that automates information to enable objective clinical decision making and eradicate non-critical operating room personnel. The integration of this key technology into our spine procedures will address unmet clinical needs and improve surgical outcomes in spine. We expect the combination to accelerate our business by increasing procedural revenue and driving pull-through across our entire portfolio.” 
 
In consideration for SafeOp, Alphatec will pay $15 million in up-front cash, a $3 million convertible note, and the issuance of 3.3 million shares of common stock and warrants to purchase 2.2 million shares of common stock at an exercise price of $3.50 per share. SafeOp will be eligible to receive an additional 1.3 million shares of common stock, subject to the achievement of performance milestones. The issuance of the shares of common stock in the merger, including at closing, upon achievement of milestones, conversion of the notes and exercise of the warrants is subject to limitations until required stockholder approval is obtained in accordance with the NASDAQ Global Select Market rules.