STRYKER CORP
8-K/A, 1999-02-19
SURGICAL & MEDICAL INSTRUMENTS & APPARATUS
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                     SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
                                      
                            WASHINGTON, DC  20549




                                 FORM 8-K/A
                                      
                               CURRENT REPORT



                   Pursuant to Section 13 or 15(d) of the
                       Securities Exchange Act of 1934



     Date of report (Date of earliest event reported):  December 4, 1998



                             STRYKER CORPORATION
             (Exact name of registrant as specified in charter)





          MICHIGAN                 0-9165                  38-1239739
       (State or other          (Commission              (IRS employer
       jurisdiction of          file number)          identification no.)
       incorporation)
                           
                           
                           
    P.O. Box 4085,                             49003-4085
    Kalamazoo, Michigan                        (Zip Code)
    (Address of principal
    executive offices)



    (616) 385-2600
    (Registrant's telephone number, including area code)






     This Current Report on Form 8-K/A amends the Current Report on Form 8-K
filed by Stryker Corporation (the "Company") on December 21, 1998 (the
"Initial 8-K") to include certain financial information omitted from the
Initial Report pursuant to Item 7(a)(4) of Form 8-K and the consent of
independent certified accountants with respect to the audited financial
statements included herein.
     
ITEM 7.   FINANCIAL STATEMENTS AND EXHIBITS

          (a)  Financial statements of the business acquired.
               

- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Howmedica (A Business of Pfizer Inc.) Combined Financial Statements for the
years ended December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995 and Independent Auditor's
Report.
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
               
               
               
INDEPENDENT AUDITORS' REPORT
                                      

The Board of Directors
Pfizer, Inc.


We have audited the accompanying combined balance sheets of Howmedica, a
Business of Pfizer Inc. ("the Company") as of December 31, 1997 and 1996, and
the combined statements of income and cash flows for each of the years in the
three-year period ended December 31, 1997.  These combined financial
statements are the responsibility of the Company's management.  Our
responsibility is to express an opinion on these combined financial
statements based on our audits.

We conducted our audits in accordance with generally accepted auditing
standards.  Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to
obtain reasonable assurance about whether the combined financial statements
are free of material misstatement.  An audit includes examining, on a test
basis, evidence supporting the amounts and disclosures in the combined
financial statements.  An audit also includes assessing the accounting
principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as
evaluating the overall combined financial statement presentation.  We believe
that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

In our opinion, the combined financial statements referred to above present
fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of Howmedica, a
Business of Pfizer Inc., as of December 31, 1997 and 1996 and the results of
its operations and its cash flows for each of the years in the three-year
period ended December 31, 1997, in conformity with generally accepted
accounting principles.

                                             /s/ KPMG LLP


September 9, 1998


<TABLE>

    Howmedica
    (A Business of Pfizer Inc.)
    COMBINED BALANCE SHEET
    (Dollars in Thousands)
                                                                     
                                                  December 31   December 31
                                                      1997         1996
                                                  -----------   -----------
    Assets                                                      
    
    CURRENT ASSETS                                                         
    <S>                                                <C>          <C>
    Cash                                               $11,662      $31,131
    Accounts receivable, less allowance for                                
      doubtful accounts:
      1997 - $13,361; 1996 - $13,773                   208,859      212,050
    Due from parent and affiliates                     170,841      103,612
    Inventories                                        253,889      263,514
    Deferred taxes                                      57,717       61,287
    Prepaid expenses and other assets                   21,232       22,271
                                                    ----------   ----------
    Total current assets                               724,200      693,865
                                                                           
    Property, plant and equipment, less                                    
       accumulated depreciation                        192,346      194,221
    Goodwill and other intangible assets, net          104,758      114,644
    Deferred charges                                   188,261      186,982
    Deferred taxes                                         635            0
    Other assets                                         2,425        2,526
                                                    ----------   ----------
      Total assets                                  $1,212,625   $1,192,238
                                                    ==========   ==========
    
    Liabilities and Business Unit Equity                                   
    
    CURRENT LIABILITIES                                                    
    Accounts payable                                   $84,911      $93,620
    Short-term borrowings                                3,447       25,146
    Due to parent and affiliates                       516,183      474,094
    Income taxes payable                                24,262       29,820
    Deferred taxes                                       7,335        4,435
    Accrued compensation and related items              34,620       31,975
    Other current liabilities                           63,254       43,206
                                                    ----------   ----------
      Total current liabilities                        734,012      702,296
                                                                           
    Long-term debt                                         337        1,753
    Deferred taxes                                      48,751       55,819
    Other noncurrent liabilities                         8,574        7,973
                                                    ----------   ----------
      Total liabilities                                791,674      767,841
                                                                           
    Business unit equity                               420,915      380,221
    Currency translation adjustment                         36       44,176
                                                    ----------   ----------
      Total business unit equity                       420,951      424,397
                                                    ----------   ----------
                                                                           
      Total liabilities and business unit equity    $1,212,625   $1,192,238
                                                    ==========   ==========
    

See accompanying notes to combined financial statements.

</TABLE>

<TABLE>

Howmedica
(A Business of Pfizer Inc.)
COMBINED STATEMENT OF INCOME
(Dollars in Thousands)


                                                Years Ended December 31,
                                          -----------------------------------
                                                1997         1996        1995
                                            --------     --------    --------
<S>                                         <C>          <C>         <C>
Net sales                                   $820,708     $792,620    $732,686
Cost and expenses:                                                           
  Cost of sales                              295,606      281,071     271,484
  Selling, informational and                                                 
   administrative expenses                   325,831      289,549     255,254
  Research and development expenses           50,102       49,925      40,512
  Corporate and division overhead costs       27,031       21,825      18,034
  Other deductions--net                       32,907       15,140      26,972
                                            --------     --------    --------
Income before provision for taxes on                                         
  income                                      89,231      135,110     120,430
Provision for taxes on income                 34,343       55,549      48,400
                                            --------     --------    --------
Net income                                   $54,888      $79,561     $72,030
                                            ========     ========    ========

See accompanying notes to combined financial statements.
</TABLE>

<TABLE>

Howmedica
(A Business of Pfizer Inc.)
COMBINED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
(Dollars in Thousands)


                                                   YEARS ENDED DECEMBER 31,
                                                ------------------------------
                                                     1997       1996      1995
                                                ---------   --------  --------
OPERATING ACTIVITIES                                                          
<S>                                               <C>        <C>       <C>
Net income                                        $54,888    $79,561   $72,030
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net                                    
 cash provided by operating activities:                                       
  Depreciation and amortization of intangibles     68,204     56,786    39,090
  Gain on disposals of property, plant                                        
   and equipment                                     (101)        (6)      (29)
  Deferred taxes                                    1,171      7,860    (1,642)
  Other                                              (162)        60       438
  Changes in assets and liabilities:                                          
   Accounts receivable                            (14,193)     4,570    (8,497)
   Inventories                                    (13,139)     4,912     6,826
   Prepaid, other assets and deferred charges     (41,417)   (87,224)  (55,470)
   Accounts payable and accrued liabilities        20,020     (3,523)   33,185
   Other noncurrent liabilities                       868       (418)    3,511
   Due from/to parent and affiliates               (3,857)   113,155   (33,908)
                                                  -------    -------   -------
Net cash provided by operating activities          72,282    175,733    55,534
                                                  -------    -------   -------
                                                                              
INVESTING ACTIVITIES                                                          
   Purchases of property, plant and equipment     (45,386)   (54,337)  (35,454)
   Proceeds from sales of property, plant                                     
     and equipment                                  1,456      1,706     1,759
   Acquisition, net of cash acquired                    0    (53,083)        0
   Other                                             (690)         0      (818)
                                                  -------    -------   -------
Net cash used in investing activities             (44,620)  (105,714)  (34,513)
                                                  -------    -------   -------
                                                                              
FINANCING ACTIVITIES                                                          
   Proceeds from borrowings                             0      3,107         0
   Repayments of borrowings                       (19,912)         0    (4,102)
   Dividends to parent company                     (6,825)   (21,405)  (10,640)
   Branch earnings remitted                       (17,036)   (45,251)  (35,510)
   Capital contribution                                 0     12,316     7,731
                                                  -------    -------   -------
Net cash used in financing activities             (43,773)   (51,233)  (42,521)
                                                  -------    -------   -------
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash            (3,358)      (377)    1,253
                                                  -------    -------   -------
Net increase/(decrease) in cash                   (19,469)    18,409   (20,247)
Cash at beginning of year                          31,131     12,722    32,969
                                                  -------    -------   -------
Cash at end of year                               $11,662    $31,131   $12,722
                                                  =======    =======   =======

See accompanying notes to combined financial statements.
</TABLE>



Howmedica
(A Business of Pfizer Inc.)
Notes to Combined Financial Statements
(Dollars in Thousands)


1.   Organization and Business Description

Organization

Howmedica is a business unit within the Medical Technology Group ("MTG") of
Pfizer Inc. ("Pfizer").  Howmedica is comprised of the following wholly-owned
(directly or indirectly) subsidiaries of Pfizer - Howmedica GmbH (Germany);
Howmedica Leibinger Inc.; Howmedica Leibinger GmbH & Co.; Jaquet Orthopedie
S.A.; Howmedica International Inc. (includes Panama, Germany and Irish
branches); Howmedica International Limited; Pfizer Hospital Products Ltd.;
Benoist Girard & Cie S.C.A.; Pfizer Medical Technology Group Ltd.; Howmedica
France S.C.A.; Howmedica GesMBH (Austria); Pfizer Medical Technology Group
A.B.; Pfizer Medical Technology Group (Belgium) N.V.; Pfizer Medical
Technology Group (Netherlands) B.V.; Howmedica Iberica S.A; Pficonprod Pty
Ltd. (Australia) and the Rutherford, New Jersey branch (Orthopedic Division)
of Howmedica Inc.   In addition, Howmedica includes certain net assets used
exclusively in its business but located at various Pfizer subsidiaries.

Business Description

Howmedica manufactures, markets and distributes a wide range of
reconstructive, trauma and specialty products used by orthopedic medical
professionals in the treatment of musculoskeletal disorders.  In addition,
Howmedica's products include specialty surgical instrumentation focused on
stereotactic surgery.  Howmedica has a global direct sales and distribution
presence in all major markets of the world and has its manufacturing
operations in the United States and Europe.  The raw materials for its
products are readily available and Howmedica is not dependent on a single
supplier or only a few suppliers for its raw materials.


2.     Basis of Presentation and Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

Basis of Presentation

The accompanying combined financial statements present the financial
position, results of operations and cash flows for Howmedica as if it were a
separate legal entity.  All significant intercompany transactions and
balances have been eliminated.  Operations outside of the U.S. are included
on a fiscal year basis ending November 30.  The combined financial statements
include the accounts specifically attributed to Howmedica, including
allocations of certain assets, liabilities and expenses relating to shared
services and administrative functions incurred at the corporate and business
segment operating levels of Pfizer.  The Rutherford branch's earnings are
included in the net income of Howmedica and are remitted to Pfizer through
the intercompany accounts on an annual basis.  Cash from Howmedica's domestic
operations is not included in cash in the accompanying combined balance sheet
at December 31, 1997 and 1996 since this cash is included in Pfizer's
centralized cash management system.  Accordingly, Howmedica's cash at
December 31, 1997 and 1996 may not be representative of an independent
company.

The preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted
accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions
that affect the amounts reported in the combined financial statements and
accompanying notes.  Actual results could differ from those estimates.
Significant accounting estimates used include depreciation, amortization and
estimates used in allocating certain assets, liabilities and the costs of
shared services and administrative functions.

Management believes that it exercised reasonableness in deriving these
amounts.  Howmedica is subject to risks and uncertainties that may cause
actual results to differ from estimated results, such as, but not limited to,
changes in the healthcare environment, competition, foreign exchange,
legislation, regulation, litigation and other such matters.

Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

Due from/to parent and affiliates - Due from/to parent and affiliates
reflects balances and transactions among Howmedica, Pfizer and other Pfizer
entities.  Howmedica participates in Pfizer's centralized cash management
system and, as such, its cash funding requirements are met by Pfizer and
generally all excess cash from Howmedica's domestic operations is transferred
to Pfizer.

Inventories - Inventories are valued at the lower of cost or market, with
cost determined for finished goods and work-in-process at average actual cost
and raw materials and supplies at average or latest actual cost.

Property, plant and equipment - Property, plant and equipment are carried at
cost less accumulated depreciation.  Major improvements are capitalized while
maintenance and repairs are expensed when incurred.  Depreciation is computed
generally on a straight-line basis over the following estimated useful lives:
      
      Buildings                               33  1/3  years
      Machinery and equipment                  8 - 12  years
      Furniture, fixtures and other            3 - 12  years

Goodwill and other intangible assets - Goodwill represents the excess of
purchase price over fair value of the net tangible and identified intangible
assets acquired in purchase transactions.  Goodwill is being amortized on a
straight-line basis over 40 years.  Other intangible assets are amortized on
a straight-line basis over their estimated useful lives.  Amortization
expense of goodwill and other intangible assets is included in "Other
deductions--net" in the accompanying combined statement of income.  The
carrying values of goodwill and other intangible assets are reviewed for
impairment whenever events or changes in business conditions indicate they
may not be recoverable.  Howmedica considers assets to be impaired and writes
them down to fair value if expected associated cash flows are less than their
carrying amounts.

Foreign currency translation - The financial statements of operations outside
of the U.S. are maintained in their local currency.  Howmedica translates
assets and liabilities to their U.S. dollar equivalents at rates in effect at
the balance sheet date.  Income and expense items are translated into their
U.S. dollar equivalents at average rates of exchange for the period.
Translation gains and losses are accumulated in a separate component of
business unit equity.  Gains and losses on foreign currency transactions,
which were not material, are included in earnings.

Financial instruments - The carrying values of Howmedica's financial
instruments approximate their estimated fair values.  At December 31, 1997
and 1996, the cost of each type of financial instrument, primarily accounts
receivable, due from/to parent and affiliates, accounts payable and short-
term borrowings approximates fair value because of the short maturity period
of these instruments.

Royalty expenses - Royalty expenses are primarily related to product design
and development and are expensed as incurred.  Royalty expenses included in
"Cost of sales" on the accompanying combined statement of income were
$40,091, $36,918 and $41,147 for 1997, 1996 and 1995, respectively.

Loaner instruments - Howmedica provides certain instruments for surgical
implants primarily to hospitals.  These instruments are included in "Deferred
charges" on the accompanying combined balance sheet and are amortized on a
straight-line basis over five years.  The carrying values of these
instruments are $175,109 and $172,838 at December 31, 1997 and 1996.
Amortization expense of loaner instruments is included in "Cost of sales" in
the accompanying combined statement of income and was $34,194, $26,273 and
$15,997 for the years ended December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995, respectively.

Advertising expense - Advertising costs are expensed as incurred.
Advertising expenses were $33,474, $26,793 and $21,561 for 1997, 1996 and
1995, respectively.

Concentration of credit risk - Howmedica does not have significant
concentrations of credit risk from its customers.  Periodically, Howmedica
reviews the credit quality of its customers' financial condition.  In
general, there is no requirement for collateral from customers.

Income taxes - As an operating unit of Pfizer, Howmedica does not file
separate U. S. Federal or certain foreign tax returns but rather is included
as part of the various returns filed by Pfizer or its subsidiaries.  For
reporting purposes, Howmedica's tax provision is computed as if it were a
separate company.  For jurisdictions where Howmedica is included in Pfizer's
or its subsidiaries' tax returns, allocated domestic income taxes are settled
with Pfizer on a current basis.  Deferred tax assets and liabilities are
recognized for the expected future tax consequences of differences between
the financial reporting and tax bases of assets and liabilities using enacted
tax rates and laws.  No provision has been made for taxes on overseas
retained earnings as they all have been deemed to be permanently reinvested.


3.   Financial Instruments and Concentrations of Credit Risk

Howmedica enters into forward-exchange contracts to match local market short-
term assets and liabilities denominated in currencies other than the
functional currency.  The contracts generally have maturities of six months
or less.  Changes in the fair value of the forward-exchange contracts are
included in "Other deductions-net" in the accompanying combined statement of
income together with foreign-exchange gains and losses.  At December 31, 1997
and 1996, Howmedica had outstanding forward-exchange contracts with an
aggregate notional amount of $99,100 and $39,500, respectively, primarily for
the exchange of U.S. dollars and major European currencies.  At December 31,
1997, outstanding forward-exchange contracts with an aggregate notional
amount of $55,626 and all of the outstanding forward-exchange contracts at
December 31, 1996 are with an affiliated entity as the counterparty.

Purchased currency options serve as hedges of anticipated inventory
purchases.  They are recorded at cost and amortized evenly to operations
through the expected inventory delivery date.  Unrealized gains are recorded
at the transaction date and are included in the cost of the related inventory
purchased.  At December 31, 1997 and 1996, $18,000 and $24,000 of yen-
denominated currency options with maturities through October 1998 were held
by Pfizer on Howmedica's behalf.  The unrealized differences between fair and
carrying values were not material at December 31, 1997 and 1996.


4.    Corporate and Division Overhead Costs

Pfizer allocates certain corporate service and employee benefit expenses
(based on actual costs incurred) to Howmedica on the basis of number of
personnel, occupied office space and third party sales.  Pfizer does not
allocate various other corporate overhead expenses to its operating
divisions.

However, for purposes of the accompanying combined financial statements,
allocations of such expenses have been included in the combined statement of
income and are summarized as follows:

<TABLE>
                                     Years Ended December 31,
                                  ----------------------------
                                      1997      1996      1995
                                   -------   -------   -------
<S>                                <C>       <C>       <C>
Pfizer corporate overhead costs    $13,023   $14,136   $11,531
MTG division overhead costs         14,008     7,689     6,503
                                   -------   -------   -------
                                   $27,031   $21,825   $18,034
                                   =======   =======   =======
</TABLE>

Pfizer corporate overhead costs represent a portion of corporate functions
such as personnel, legal, accounting, treasury and information systems which
are primarily allocated based on sales of Howmedica compared to total Pfizer
revenues.

MTG division overhead costs represent personnel, quality control, regulatory
compliance, finance and business development which are primarily allocated
based on sales to third party customers of Howmedica compared to total MTG
sales.

Management believes that all allocations are made on a reasonable basis;
however, these costs are not necessarily representative of the costs that
would have been or will be incurred by Howmedica as an independent company.


5.   Restructuring and Other Charges

In 1993, Pfizer initiated a worldwide restructuring program which included
the consolidation of manufacturing facilities, the demolition of buildings
resulting from the consolidation, reconfiguration and rehabilitation of
remaining facilities, the consolidation of distribution and administrative
organizations and infrastructures and the write-down of inventory.
Restructuring charges related to Howmedica were $104,645.  The restructuring
reserve was utilized in the amounts of $20,245, $600, $42,400 and $41,400 in
1996, 1995, 1994 and 1993, respectively.  As of December 31, 1996, this
program was completed.

In 1995, Howmedica began a reorganization of its distribution system and
recorded a related charge of $19,600 which is included in "Other deductions-
net" in the accompanying combined statement of income for the year ended
December 31, 1995.  As of December 31, 1996, the reorganization was
completed.


6.     Patent Settlements

During 1997, Howmedica settled patent infringement cases and expensed related
settlement costs of $16,150 which are included in "Other deductions-net" in
the accompanying combined statement of income for the year ended December 31,
1997.


7.     Inventory

<TABLE>
                                        1997         1996
                                   ---------    ---------
<S>                                 <C>          <C>
Finished goods                      $275,515     $277,741
Work-in-process                       26,771       37,318
Raw materials                         22,632       24,103
                                    --------     --------
                                     324,918      339,162
Less: allowance for obsolescence     (71,029)     (75,648)
                                    --------     --------
                                    $253,889     $263,514
                                    ========     ========
</TABLE>

8.     Acquisitions

On January 11, 1996, Howmedica acquired Leibinger GmbH for approximately $53
million in cash. The purchase price of Leibinger GmbH exceeded the fair value
of the net assets acquired by approximately $35 million.  At the same time,
Pfizer acquired Leibinger U.S. for approximately $80 million in cash and
contributed the net assets of Leibinger U.S. to Howmedica.  The purchase
price of Leibinger U.S. exceeded the fair value of the net assets acquired by
approximately $74 million. These acquisitions were recorded under the
purchase method of accounting.  The financial statements of Howmedica include
the operating results of Leibinger GmbH and Leibinger U.S. subsequent to the
date of acquisition and contribution.


9.   Property, Plant and Equipment

<TABLE>
                                        1997        1996
                                   ---------   ---------
<S>                                  <C>         <C>
Land and buildings                   $50,038     $55,827
Machinery and equipment              135,211     135,673
Furniture, fixtures and other        151,530     143,526
Construction in progress              11,962       3,695
                                    --------    --------
                                     348,741     338,721
Less: Accumulated depreciation      (156,395)   (144,500)
                                    --------    --------
Net property, plant and equipment   $192,346    $194,221
                                    ========    ========

</TABLE>

Depreciation expense totaled $30,398, $27,503 and $22,655 for the years ended
December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995, respectively.


10.     Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets

<TABLE>
                                                1997       1996
                                            --------   --------
<S>                                          <C>        <C>
Goodwill                                     $61,902    $63,642
Patents                                       13,256     13,699
Trademarks                                    17,753     21,600
Customer lists                                 9,400      9,400
License agreements                             5,168      4,268
Other                                          9,797     10,547
                                            --------   --------
                                             117,276    123,156
Less: Accumulated amortization               (12,518)    (8,512)
                                            --------   --------
Net goodwill and other intangible assets    $104,758   $114,644
                                            ========   ========
</TABLE>

Amortization expense totaled $3,612, $3,010 and $438 for the years ended
December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995, respectively, and is included in "Other
deductions-net" in the accompanying combined statement of income.


11.     Income Taxes

The components of the income tax provision are:

<TABLE>
                                             1997       1996        1995
                                        ---------  ---------   ---------
United States:                                                          
  Taxes currently payable:                                              
      <S>                                  <C>       <C>         <C>
      Federal                              $1,091    $13,406     $15,481
      State and local                         288      3,505       2,538
  Deferred income taxes                       857      3,318      (1,064)
                                          -------    -------     -------
Total U.S. tax provision                    2,236     20,229      16,955
                                          -------    -------     -------
International:                                                          
    Taxes currently payable                34,197     26,711      30,617
    Deferred income taxes                  (2,090)     8,609         828
                                          -------    -------     -------
Total International tax provision          32,107     35,320      31,445
                                          -------    -------     -------
Total provision for taxes on income       $34,343    $55,549     $48,400
                                          =======    =======     =======
</TABLE>

Reconciliations of the U.S. income tax rate to Howmedica's effective rate
follow:

<TABLE>
                                          1997       1996       1995
                                      --------   --------   --------
<S>                                     <C>         <C>        <C>
Federal statutory income tax rate       35.0%       35.0%      35.0%
Effect of foreign operations             3.6%        3.2%       3.2%
State & local taxes and other           (0.1)%       2.9%       2.0%
                                       -------    -------    -------
Effective income tax rate               38.5%       41.1%      40.2%
                                       =======    =======    =======
</TABLE>

Deferred income taxes are provided for the temporary differences between the
financial reporting basis and the tax basis of Howmedica's assets and
liabilities.  Deferred tax assets and liabilities are comprised of the
following:

<TABLE>
                                      1997                 1996
                                ------------------   ------------------
                               Assets  Liabilities Assets  Liabilities
                               ------- ----------- ------- -----------
<S>                            <C>          <C>    <C>          <C>
Prepaid/deferred items         $16,362      $9,494 $12,376      $10,875
Inventories                     54,401       2,702  56,188        3,918
Deferred charges                    --      35,531      --       29,010
Employee benefits                  939       3,076     411        3,342
Property, plant and equipment   11,312      28,508   5,555       29,964
Tax carryforwards                  617          --     807           --
Other                            2,000       4,054   5,020        2,215
                               -------     ------- -------      -------
Total deferred taxes           $85,631     $83,365 $80,357      $79,324
                               -------     ------- -------      -------
Net deferred tax asset          $2,266              $1,033             
                               =======             =======             
</TABLE>

The deferred tax assets and liabilities at December 31, 1997 and 1996 are
disclosed separately in the accompanying combined balance sheet.


12.     Pension and Postretirement Benefits

Certain Howmedica subsidiaries sponsor various pension plans.  At other
locations, their employees participate in Pfizer's pension plans for
employees worldwide.  Plan benefits depend on years of service and employee
final average earnings.  Participants vest in their benefits after as few as
five years of service.  The following tables present the benefit obligations
and the funded status of the Howmedica sponsored plans which exclude the
Howmedica employees who participate in Pfizer's plans, as well as the
assumptions used:

                                           1997          1996
                                       ------------  ------------
Assumptions:                                         
  Discount rate:                                     
     U.S. plan                        7.0%           7.5%
     International plans              4.5% - 7.0%    4.5% - 7.0%
  Rate of increase in salary levels:                 
     International plans              2.5% - 3.8%    2.0% - 3.8%


The benefit obligation of the Howmedica sponsored U.S. plan reflects a pre-
determined salary component, adjusted from time to time, as defined in an
agreement between the plan participants and Howmedica.

<TABLE>
                                                            1997      1996
                                                        --------  --------
<S>                                                      <C>       <C>
Fair value of plan assets                                $45,993   $40,895
                                                                          
Actuarial present value of accumulated benefit                            
 obligation:
   Vested                                                 41,834    37,587
   Non-vested                                              4,815     4,798
                                                        --------  --------
Total                                                     46,649    42,385
Effect of future salary increases                          9,327    10,549
                                                         -------   -------
Projected benefit obligation                              55,976    52,934
                                                         -------   -------
Plan assets less than benefit obligation                  (9,983)  (12,039)
Unrecognized overfunding at date of adoption               2,263     2,659
Unrecognized net losses                                      433     2,998
Unrecognized prior service cost                            2,935     2,906
Minimum liability adjustment                                (266)      (58)
                                                         -------   -------
Accrued costs included in the combined balance sheet     $(4,618)  $(3,534)
                                                         =======   =======
</TABLE>

The annual cost related to these plans and the assumptions used consist of
the following:

                                                         1997         1996
                                                     --------   ----------
Assumptions:                                                              
 Expected long-term rate of return on plan assets:                        
   U.S. plan                                            10.0%        10.0%
   International plans                               3.0-8.0%   5.0%-8.75%
Expected return on plan assets:                                           
Actual return                                         $(8,484)     $(2,776)
Deferred return                                         5,264       (1,025)
                                                      -------      -------
Net expected return                                    (3,220)      (3,801)
Service cost-benefits earned during the period          3,425        3,395
Interest cost on benefit obligation                     3,536        3,364
Net amortization and deferral                             499          495
                                                      -------      -------
Net periodic pension cost                              $4,240       $3,453
                                                      =======      =======


The pension plan trustees invest plan assets primarily in stocks, bonds and
short-term investments.

Pfizer makes contributions to its U.S. sponsored pension plan, as necessary,
to satisfy the minimum funding requirements of the Employee Retirement Income
Security Act of 1974.  No contributions to Pfizer's U.S. plan were made or
required in 1997, 1996 or 1995 as the full funding limitation had already
been reached for these years.  Pfizer is in the process of identifying the
plan assets that will be used to satisfy past service liabilities for the
Howmedica employees.  For the years ended December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995, a
pension cost of $275, $555 and $1,862, respectively, was allocated to
Howmedica.  Pfizer funds its international pension plans as required by local
government and tax requirements.

Howmedica participates in an international pension plan of Pfizer that is
underfunded.  At December 31, 1997 and 1996, the related minimum pension
liability attributable to Howmedica is approximately $3,171 and $2,889,
respectively, and is included in "Other noncurrent liabilities" in the
accompanying combined balance sheet.

Pfizer does not fund other postretirement plans, but contributes to the plans
as benefits are paid.  At December 31, 1997 and 1996, the postretirement
benefit obligation principally related to medical insurance at Howmedica was
$4,199 and $3,852, respectively, and is included in "Other noncurrent
liabilities" in the accompanying combined balance sheet


13.     Business Unit Equity

The changes in business unit equity during the years ended December 31, 1995,
1996 and 1997 were as follows:

<TABLE>

                                 Business                              
                                   Unit                                
                                  Equity                               
                                Exclusive                              
                                    of      Accumulated   Minimum  Business
                               Translation  Translation   Pension    Unit
                                Adjustment  Adjustment   Liability  Equity
                               -----------  ----------   --------- --------
<S>                                <C>          <C>            <C>  <C>
Balance at January 1, 1995         $239,669     $18,530        $--  $258,199
Net income                           72,030          --         --    72,030
Activity with Pfizer:                                                       
 Dividends to parent company        (10,640)         --         --   (10,640)
 Rutherford branch earnings                                                 
  remitted                          (35,510)         --         --   (35,510)
 Capital contribution                 7,731          --         --     7,731
 Other net assets distributed                                               
  to or disposed of by Pfizer        (2,945)         --         --    (2,945)
 Other activity, net                 (2,575)         --         --    (2,575)
Translation adjustment                   --      13,579         --    13,579
Minimum pension liability                                                   
 adjustment                              --          --     (3,152)   (3,152)
                                   --------     -------   --------  --------
Balance at December 31, 1995        267,760      32,109     (3,152)  296,717
Net income                           79,561          --         --    79,561
Activity with Pfizer:                                                       
 Dividends to parent company        (21,405)         --         --   (21,405)
 Rutherford branch earnings                                                 
  remitted                          (45,251)         --         --   (45,251)
 Contributed net assets of                                                  
  Leibinger U.S.                     79,619          --         --    79,619
 Capital contribution                12,316          --         --    12,316
 Other net assets distributed                                               
  to or disposed of by Pfizer         3,540          --         --     3,540
 Other activity, net                  6,970          --         --     6,970
Translation adjustment                   --      12,067         --    12,067
Minimum pension liability                                                   
 adjustment                              --          --        263       263
                                   --------     -------   --------  --------
Balance at December 31, 1996        383,110      44,176     (2,889)  424,397
Net income                           54,888          --         --    54,888
Activity with Pfizer:                                                       
 Dividends to parent company         (6,825)         --         --    (6,825)
 Rutherford branch earnings                                                 
  remitted                          (17,036)         --         --   (17,036)
 Other net assets distributed                                               
  to or disposed of by Pfizer        15,316          --         --    15,316
 Other activity, net                 (5,367)         --         --    (5,367)
Translation adjustment                   --     (44,140)        --   (44,140)
Minimum pension liability                                                   
 adjustment                              --          --       (282)     (282)
                                   --------     -------   --------  --------
Balance at December 31, 1997       $424,086         $36    $(3,171) $420,951
                                   ========     =======   ========  ========
</TABLE>


14.     Stock Option Awards

Stock options are granted to Howmedica employees under the Pfizer Inc. Stock
and Incentive Plan.  Options are exercisable after five years or less,
subject to continuous employment and certain other conditions and expire 10
years after the grant date.  Once exercisable, the employee can purchase
shares of Pfizer common stock at the market price on the date the option was
granted.  The weighted-average fair value per stock option granted was
$16.77, $10.90 and $6.46 for the options granted in 1997, 1996 and 1995,
respectively.

The fair values were estimated using the Black-Scholes option pricing model,
modified for dividends and using the following assumptions:

                                         1997      1996      1995
                                        ------    ------    ------
Expected dividend yield                 1.76%     1.97%     2.85%
Risk-free interest rate                 6.23%     6.38%     6.26%
Expected stock price volatility        25.56%    25.45%    26.00%
Expected term until exercise (years)    5.50      5.25      5.25


Compensation expense was not recognized for the issuance of employee stock
options.  If Pfizer had recorded compensation expense for option grants,
Howmedica's pro forma net income for 1997, 1996 and 1995 reflecting the
compensation cost for the fair value of stock options awarded to Howmedica
employees in 1997, 1996 and 1995 would have been as follows:

                         Year Ended December 31,
                       ---------------------------
                           1997      1996     1995
                        -------   -------  -------
Net income:                                       
   As reported          $54,888   $79,561  $72,030
   Pro forma            $48,728   $76,428  $71,479


In 1997, 737,500 options were granted to Howmedica employees with a weighted
average exercise price of $55.04; in 1996, 1,132,148 options were granted
with a weighted average exercise price of $37.25 and in 1995, 683,800 options
were granted with a weighted average exercise price of $24.50.  Information
regarding outstanding options and exercisability for Howmedica employees is
not available.  In the opinion of Pfizer management, this information is not
significant to the presentation of the financial statements.


15.     Contingent Liabilities and Commitments

Howmedica is involved in a number of claims and litigations considered normal
in its business, including product liability, employment, tax, and
intellectual property matters.  In the product liability area, there are
approximately 150 matters pending, including suits and claims involving
allegedly defective hip or knee prostheses, fixation devices, or other
products, most based on allegations of mechanical failure.  Eleven matters,
including nine hip and two knee cases, allege long-term effects of the
materials in the prostheses. While it is not possible to predict the outcome
of any of these proceedings, Howmedica believes that the liability resulting
from all pending lawsuits and claims, irrespective of the demands in any of
them, will not have a material adverse effect on its results of operations,
cash flows or financial position.

Howmedica leases facilities, vehicles and office equipment under various
noncancelable operating leases. Total rent expense under operating leases was
approximately $7,943, $7,043 and $5,810 for the years ended December 31,
1997, 1996 and 1995, respectively.

At December 31, 1997, future minimum lease payments in years ending December
31 are:

                                Operating
                                   Leases
                               ----------
1998                               $7,308
1999                                5,128
2000                                4,082
2001                                2,964
2002                                2,521
Later years                         2,251
                                  -------
Total minimum lease payments      $24,254
                                  =======


16.     Subsequent Event

In 1998, Pfizer entered into an agreement to sell Howmedica to Stryker
Corporation for $1.65 billion.  The transaction, pending the usual regulatory
approvals, is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 1998.
          
          
          
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Howmedica (A Business of Pfizer Inc.) Combined Financial Statements for the
years ended December 31, 1997, 1996 and 1995 and Independent Auditor's
Report.
- ----------------------------------------------------------------------------
               
<TABLE>
               

Howmedica
(A Business of Pfizer Inc.)
COMBINED BALANCE SHEET
(Dollars in thousands)
(Unaudited)
                                                                       
                                                  September 27,  September 14,
                                                      1998           1997
                                                  -------------  -------------
Assets                                                           

CURRENT ASSETS                                                                
<S>                                                      <C>        <C>
Cash                                                     $1,965     $35,844
Accounts receivable, less allowance for doubtful                 
accounts: 1998 - $11,234; 1997 - $13,874                190,407     190,816
Due from parent and affiliates                          239,809     133,977
Inventories                                             263,517     246,062
Deferred taxes                                           65,729      63,375
Prepaid expenses and other assets                        29,406      20,943
                                                  -------------  -------------
Total current assets                                    790,833     691,017
                                                                 
Property, plant and equipment, less accumulated                  
depreciation                                            189,161     184,117
Goodwill and other intangible assets, net               110,781     104,219
Deferred charges                                        191,959     188,441
Deferred taxes                                              718           0
Other assets                                              6,044       2,437
                                                  -------------  -------------
  Total assets                                       $1,289,496  $1,170,231
                                                  =============  =============

Liabilities and Business Unit Equity                             

CURRENT LIABILITIES                                              
Accounts payable                                        $93,913     $70,536
Short-term borrowings                                     9,925      23,240
Due to parent and affiliates                            595,960     482,696
Income taxes payable                                     25,565      21,728
Deferred taxes                                            7,477       7,710
Accrued compensation and related items                   40,367      28,638
Other current liabilities                                55,532      62,101
                                                  -------------  -------------
  Total current liabilities                             828,739     696,649
                                                                 
Long-term debt                                              166         779
Deferred taxes                                           46,670      47,842
Other noncurrent liabilities                              9,692       9,069
                                                  -------------  -------------
  Total liabilities                                     885,267     754,339
                                                                 
Business unit equity                                    423,356     427,878
Accumulated other comprehensive income/(expense)        (19,127)    (11,986)
                                                  -------------  -------------
  Total business unit equity                            404,229     415,892
                                                  -------------  -------------
                                                                 
  Total liabilities and business unit equity         $1,289,496  $1,170,231
                                                  =============  =============

See accompanying notes to combined financial statements.
</TABLE>


<TABLE>

Howmedica
(A Business of Pfizer Inc.)
COMBINED STATEMENT OF INCOME
(Dollars in Thousands)
(Unaudited)


                                               Nine Months Ended
                                         ------------------------------
                                          September 27,   September 14,
                                               1998           1997
                                          -------------- --------------
<S>                                             <C>             <C>
Net sales                                       $595,268        $583,667
Cost and expenses:                                                      
  Cost of sales                                  211,937         212,674
  Selling, informational and                                            
    administrative expenses                      248,996         238,787
  Research and development expenses               38,249          36,010
  Corporate and division overhead costs           25,892          17,719
  Other deductions--net                           11,712          15,066
                                                --------        --------
Income before provision for taxes on                                    
  income                                          58,482          63,411
Provision for taxes on income                     22,283          24,084
                                                --------        --------
Net income                                       $36,199         $39,327
                                                ========        ========

See accompanying notes to combined financial statements.

</TABLE>

<TABLE>

Howmedica
(A Business of Pfizer Inc.)
COMBINED STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS
(Dollars in Thousands)
(Unaudited)


                                                       NINE MONTHS ENDED
                                                -----------------------------
                                                 September 27,  September 14,
                                                      1998           1997
                                                    ---------       --------
OPERATING ACTIVITIES                                          
<S>                                                   <C>            <C>
Net income                                            $36,199        $39,327
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net                                  
 cash provided by operating activities:                                     
  Depreciation and amortization of intangibles         50,925         48,671
  Gain on disposals of property, plant                                      
   and equipment                                         (174)          (125)
  Deferred taxes                                       (9,393)        (3,544)
  Other                                                   531            639
  Changes in assets and liabilities:                                        
   Accounts receivable                                 14,319           (269)
   Inventories                                        (16,922)       (11,083)
   Prepaid, other assets and deferred charges         (45,605)       (34,033)
   Accounts payable and accrued liabilities            10,838        (5,181)
   Other noncurrent liabilities                         1,154          1,451
   Due from/to parent and affiliates                    5,833         17,734
                                                      -------        -------
Net cash provided by operating activities              47,705         53,587
                                                      -------        -------
                                                                            
INVESTING ACTIVITIES                                                        
   Purchases of property, plant and equipment         (32,436)       (31,542)
   Acquisition of patent license                      (12,500)             0
                                                      -------        -------
Net cash used in investing activities                 (44,936)       (31,542)
                                                      -------        -------
                                                                            
FINANCING ACTIVITIES                                                        
   Net proceeds from borrowings                         6,411          1,539
   Branch earnings remitted                           (17,958)       (14,388)
                                                      -------        -------
Net cash used in financing activities                 (11,547)       (12,849)
                                                      -------        -------
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash                  (919)        (4,483)
                                                      -------        -------
Net increase/(decrease) in cash                        (9,697)         4,713
Cash at beginning of year                              11,662         31,131
                                                      -------        -------
Cash at end of period                                  $1,965        $35,844
                                                      =======        =======

See accompanying notes to combined financial statements.
</TABLE>



Howmedica
(A Business of Pfizer Inc.)
Notes to Combined Financial Statements
(Dollars in Thousands)
(Unaudited)



1.    Organization and Business Description

Organization

Howmedica is a business unit within the Medical Technology Group ("MTG") of
Pfizer Inc. ("Pfizer").  Howmedica is comprised of the following wholly-owned
(directly or indirectly) subsidiaries of Pfizer - Howmedica GmbH (Germany);
Howmedica Leibinger Inc.; Howmedica Leibinger GmbH & Co.; Jaquet Orthopedie
S.A.; Howmedica International Inc. (includes Panama, Germany and Irish
branches); Howmedica International Limited; Pfizer Hospital Products Ltd.;
Benoist Girard & Cie S.C.A.; Pfizer Medical Technology Group Ltd.; Howmedica
France S.C.A.; Howmedica GesMBH (Austria); Pfizer Medical Technology Group
A.B.; Pfizer Medical Technology Group (Belgium) N.V.; Pfizer Medical
Technology Group (Netherlands) B.V.; Howmedica Iberica S.A; Pficonprod Pty
Ltd. (Australia) and the Rutherford, New Jersey branch (Orthopedic Division)
of Howmedica Inc.   In addition, Howmedica includes certain net assets used
exclusively in its business but located at various Pfizer subsidiaries.

Business Description

Howmedica manufactures, markets and distributes a wide range of
reconstructive, trauma and specialty products used by orthopedic medical
professionals in the treatment of musculoskeletal disorders.  In addition,
Howmedica's products include specialty surgical instrumentation focused on
stereotactic surgery.  Howmedica has a global direct sales and distribution
presence in all major markets of the world and has its manufacturing
operations in the United States and Europe.  The raw materials for its
products are readily available and Howmedica is not dependent on a single
supplier or only a few suppliers for its raw materials.


2.    Basis of Presentation

The combined financial information presented herein is unaudited.  Howmedica
is responsible for the unaudited financial statements included in this
document.  The financial statements include all normal and recurring
adjustments that are considered necessary for the fair presentation of
financial position and operating results.  Revenues, expenses, assets and
liabilities can vary during each quarter of the year.  Therefore, the results
and trends in these interim financial statements may not be the same as those
for the full year.  The interim financial statements and notes thereto do not
include all disclosures required by generally accepted accounting principles
and should be read in conjunction with Howmedica's annual audited financial
statements for 1997.

The accompanying combined financial statements present the financial
position, results of operations and cash flows for Howmedica as if it were a
separate legal entity.  All significant intercompany transactions and
balances have been eliminated.  Operations outside of the U.S. are included
as of August 23, 1998 and August 24, 1997.  The combined financial statements
include the accounts specifically attributed to Howmedica, including
allocations of certain assets, liabilities and expenses relating to shared
services and administrative functions incurred at the corporate and business
segment operating levels of Pfizer.

The Rutherford branch's earnings are included in the net income of Howmedica
and are remitted to Pfizer through the intercompany accounts on a quarterly
basis.  Cash from Howmedica's domestic operations is not included in cash in
the accompanying combined balance sheet at September 27, 1998 and September
14, 1997 since this cash is included in Pfizer's centralized cash management
system.  Accordingly, Howmedica's cash at September 27, 1998 and September
14, 1997 may not be representative of an independent company.

The preparation of financial statements in accordance with generally accepted
accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions
that affect the amounts reported in the combined financial statements and
accompanying notes.  Actual results could differ from those estimates.
Significant accounting estimates used include depreciation, amortization and
estimates used in allocating certain assets, liabilities and the costs of
shared services and administrative functions.  Management believes that it
exercised reasonableness in deriving these amounts.  Howmedica is subject to
risks and uncertainties that may cause actual results to differ from
estimated results, such as, but not limited to, changes in the healthcare
environment, competition, foreign exchange, legislation, regulation,
litigation and other such matters.


3.    New Accounting Pronouncements

Effective January 1, 1998, Howmedica adopted Statement of Financial
Accounting Standards (SFAS) No. 130, "Reporting Comprehensive Income."  This
Statement establishes standards for reporting and display of comprehensive
income, which consists of all changes in equity from nonshareholder sources.
Prior year financial statements have been conformed to the requirements of
SFAS No. 130 (see Note 5).

In June 1998, the Financial Accounting Standards Board issued SFAS No. 133,
"Accounting for Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities" which becomes
effective for Howmedica's financial statements beginning January 1, 2000.
SFAS No. 133 requires a company to recognize all derivative instruments as
assets or liabilities in its balance sheet and measure them at fair value.
Howmedica is currently evaluating this Statement and its impact on its
existing accounting policies and financial reporting disclosures.


4.    Divestiture

In 1998, Pfizer entered into an agreement to sell Howmedica to Stryker
Corporation for $1.65 billion in cash.  The transaction, pending the usual
regulatory approvals, is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 1998.


5.    Comprehensive Income/(Expense)


                                               Nine Months Ended
                                        -------------------------------
                                         Sept. 27, 1998   Sept. 14, 1997
                                         --------------   --------------
Net income                                     $36,199          $39,327
Other comprehensive expense-currency                                     
  translation adjustment                       (19,163)         (56,162)
                                          --------------   --------------
Total comprehensive income/(expense)           $17,036         $(16,835)
                                          ==============   ==============

Changes in the currency translation adjustment included in "Accumulated other
comprehensive expense" were as follows:

                                  Nine Months Ended
                            ------------------------------
                            Sept. 27, 1998   Sept. 14, 1997
                            --------------   --------------
Opening balance                        $36          $44,176
Translation adjustments            (19,163)         (56,162)
                                   --------         --------
Ending balance                    $(19,127)        $(11,986)
                                   ========         ========


6.    Corporate and Division Overhead Costs

Pfizer allocates certain corporate service and employee benefit expenses
(based on actual costs incurred) to Howmedica on the basis of number of
personnel, occupied office space and third party sales.  Pfizer does not
allocate various other corporate overhead expenses to its operating
divisions.  However, for purposes of the accompanying combined financial
statements, allocations of such expenses have been included in the combined
statement of income and are summarized as follows:

                                          Nine Months Ended
                                    -----------------------------
                                  Sept. 27, 1998     Sept. 14, 1997
                                  --------------      -------------
Pfizer corporate overhead costs          $12,206             $8,332
MTG division overhead costs               13,686              9,387
                                         -------            -------
                                         $25,892            $17,719
                                         =======            =======

Pfizer corporate overhead costs represent a portion of corporate functions
such as personnel, legal, accounting, treasury and information systems which
are primarily allocated based on sales of Howmedica compared to total Pfizer
revenues.

MTG division overhead costs represent personnel, quality control, regulatory
compliance, finance and business development which are primarily allocated
based on sales to third party customers of Howmedica compared to total MTG
sales.

Management believes that all allocations are made on a reasonable basis;
however, these costs are not necessarily representative of the costs that
would have been or will be incurred by Howmedica as an independent company.


7.    Inventory

                                    Sept. 27, 1998  Sept. 14, 1997
                                    --------------   -------------
Finished goods                             $276,946        $272,557
Work-in-process                              39,771          26,556
Raw materials                                25,088          22,706
                                          ---------       ---------
                                            341,805         321,819
Less: allowance for obsolescence            (78,288)        (75,757)
                                          ---------       ---------
                                           $263,517        $246,062
                                          =========       =========


8.    Contingent Liabilities and Commitments

Howmedica is involved in a number of claims and litigations considered normal
in its business, including product liability, employment, tax, and
intellectual property matters.  In the product liability area, there are
approximately 150 matters pending, including suits and claims involving
allegedly defective hip or knee prostheses, fixation devices, or other
products, most based on allegations of mechanical failure.  Eleven matters,
including nine hip and two knee cases, allege long-term effects of the
materials in the prostheses. While it is not possible to predict the outcome
of any of these proceedings, Howmedica believes that the liability resulting
from all pending lawsuits and claims, irrespective of the demands in any of
them, will not have a material adverse effect on its results of operations,
cash flows or financial position.

               
               
          (b)  Pro Forma financial information.
               
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet of the Company and
Howmedica as of September 30, 1998.

Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Consolidated Statements of Earnings of the
Company and Howmedica for the year ended December 31, 1997 and the nine
months ended September 30, 1998.
- ---------------------------------------------------------------------------
               
STRYKER CORPORATION AND HOWMEDICA
UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

On August 14, 1998, Stryker Corporation ("Stryker" or "the Company")
announced it had entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Howmedica,
the orthopaedic division of Pfizer, Inc,. for $1.9 billion in cash.  On
October 22, 1998, the Company reached an agreement with Pfizer to reduce the
purchase price for Howmedica to $1.65 billion in cash as a result of changes
in the financial markets.  On December 4, 1998, the Company completed the
acquisition for $1.65 billion in cash.  The acquisition of Howmedica was
accounted for using the purchase method of accounting.

The aggregate purchase price for Howmedica, including an estimate for a
contractually required adjustment based on the estimated increase in
Howmedica's working capital since December 31, 1997, has been allocated on a
preliminary basis to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on
their estimated fair values at date of acquisition, as valued by an
independent appraiser using information and assumptions provided by
management.  In addition, certain purchase liabilities have been provided in
conjunction with a plan of integration to combine Stryker and Howmedica.  The
excess of purchase price and purchase liabilities over the fair value of net
tangible assets acquired was allocated to specific intangible asset
categories as follows (in thousands):

     Goodwill                              $437,000
     Developed technology                   194,000
     Customer base                          178,900
     Purchased research and development      78,400
     Trademarks and assembled workforce      41,200
                                           --------
                                           $929,500
                                           ========

Immediately after the acquisition was consummated, management of the Company
began to implement an integration plan to combine Stryker and Howmedica.  In
conjunction with the integration plan, the Company recorded additional
purchase liabilities of approximately $111 million ($67 million net of
related tax benefit), which were included in the acquisition cost allocation.
The additional purchase liabilities include approximately $71 million for
severance and related costs for Howmedica employees, $27 million to convert
Howmedica's distribution network to direct sales to accommodate the
integration and $13 million associated with Howmedica facility closures and
contractual obligations.  The severance and related costs are provided for
planned workforce reductions covering all Howmedica employee groups other
than sales.  The cost of the distributor conversions is based on negotiated
contracts.  The restructuring actions will be completed in 1999.  As the
Company's integration plan evolves, information could become known that may
require adjustments to the purchase liabilities recorded in the preliminary
purchase price allocation.  Any increases or decreases in the estimated
liabilities for these integration activities will result in a corresponding
increase or decrease in goodwill.

During the fourth quarter of 1998, the Company recorded a $78.4 million
charge ($51.7 million net of tax) to account for purchased research and
development acquired.  The valuation of purchased research and development
was based upon an analysis of those projects which had not reached
technological feasibility and had no alternative use.  The valuation
considered expected future cash flows and was discounted for risks and
uncertainties related to target markets and completion of products.  The
other intangible assets recorded in connection with the acquisition will be
amortized on a straight-line basis over their estimated period of benefit.

These Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements are
based on the historical Consolidated Financial Statements of Stryker
Corporation and the historical Combined Financial Statements of Howmedica
under the assumptions and adjustments set forth in the accompanying Notes to
Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements.  The
Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet reflects the
combined company as if the transaction had occurred on September 30, 1998.
The Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Consolidated Statements of Earnings assume
that the acquisition occurred on January 1, 1997, and do not give effect to
the purchased research and development charge recorded in connection with the
acquisition.

The Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements do not
purport to represent what the Company's financial position or the results of
operations would have been if the Howmedica acquisition had been in effect on
the dates indicated or which may be achieved in the future.  The Unaudited
Pro Forma Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements should be read in
conjunction with the historical Consolidated Financial Statements of Stryker
Corporation and the historical Combined Financial Statements of Howmedica and
the notes accompanying both statements.

<TABLE>

STRYKER CORPORATION AND HOWMEDICA
UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED BALANCE SHEET
(Amounts in thousands)

                                           September 30, 1998
                             ----------------------------------------------
                                                    
                                                      Pro Forma     Pro Forma
                                                     Adjustments     Stryker
                                                         And       Corporation
                             Stryker                 Reclassifi-       and
                           Corporation  Howmedica      Cations      Howmedica
                           -----------  ----------  -----------    -----------
ASSETS                                                             
 Current Assets                                                    
  Cash and cash                                                               
   <S>                        <C>           <C>     <C>                <C>
   equivalents                $223,069      $1,965  ($137,140) (1)     $87,894
  Marketable debt                                                             
   securities                  135,731               (135,731) (1)           0
  Accounts receivable,                                                        
   less allowance for                                                         
   doubtful accounts           191,173     190,407                     381,580
  Due from parent and                                                         
   affiliates                              239,809   (239,809) (2)           0
  Inventories                  165,971     263,517    146,800  (3)     576,288
  Deferred income taxes         86,140      65,729    (63,842) (4)     132,027
                                                       44,000  (5)            
  Prepaid expenses and                                                        
   other current assets         16,666      29,406                      46,072
                             ---------   ---------  ---------        ---------
 Total Current Assets          818,750     790,833   (385,722)       1,223,861
                                                                              
 Property, plant and                                                          
  equipment, less                                                             
  allowance for                                                               
  depreciation                 182,998     189,161     11,700  (6)     383,859
 Goodwill and other                                                           
  intangibles, net of                                                         
  amortization                             110,781   (110,781) (7)     953,408
                                                       49,790  (8)            
                                                      903,618  (9)            
 Deferred charges                          191,959    (56,800)(10)     135,159
                                                                              
 Other assets                   69,927       6,762     25,493  (1)      79,048
                                                      (49,790) (8)            
                                                       26,656 (11)             
                             ---------   ---------  ---------        ---------
TOTAL ASSETS                $1,071,675  $1,289,496   $414,164       $2,775,335
                            ==========  ==========  =========       ==========
LIABILITIES AND                                                               
  STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY
 Current Liabilities                                                          
  Accounts payable             $51,662     $93,913                    $145,575
  Short-term borrowings                      9,925   ($9,925) (4)            0
  Due to parent and                                                           
   Affiliates                              595,960  (595,960) (2)            0
  Accrued compensation          45,373      40,367                      85,740
  Income taxes                  50,599      25,565    (5,000) (4)       71,164
  Accrued expenses and                                                        
   Other liabilities            65,427      63,009    (1,600) (4)      237,836
                                                     111,000  (5)             
  Current maturities of                                                      
   long-term debt               71,280               (69,331) (1)        1,949
                             ---------   ---------  ---------        ---------
 Total Current Liabilities     284,341     828,739  (570,816)          542,264
 Long-term debt, excluding                                                    
  Current maturities             3,874         166  1,471,953  (1)   1,475,993
 Deferred income taxes                      46,670    (25,000) (4)      21,670
 Other liabilities              28,455       9,692     (6,000) (4)      32,147
 Minority interest              29,235                                  29,235
 Stockholders' equity                                                         
  Common stock                   9,642                                   9,642
  Additional paid-in                                                          
   Capital                       8,433                                   8,433
  Howmedica business                                                          
   unit equity                             423,356   (423,356)(12)           0
  Retained earnings            718,949                (51,744)(11)     667,205
  Accumulated other                                                           
   Comprehensive loss         (11,254)    (19,127)     19,127 (12)     (11,254)
                             ---------   ---------  ---------        ---------
 Total Stockholders'                                                          
  Equity                       725,770     404,229   (455,973)         674,026
                             ---------   ---------  ---------        ---------
TOTAL LIABILITIES AND                                                         
  STOCKHOLDERS' EQUITY      $1,071,675  $1,289,496   $414,164       $2,775,335
                            ==========  ==========  =========       ==========

See accompanying notes to unaudited pro forma condensed consolidated
financial statements.
</TABLE>


<TABLE>

STRYKER CORPORATION AND HOWMEDICA
UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EARNINGS
(Amounts in thousands, except per share amounts)


                                   Year Ended December 31, 1997
                         ------------------------------------------------
                                                 
                                                  Pro Forma     Pro Forma
                                                 Adjustments     Stryker
                                                     and       Corporation
                           Stryker               Reclassifi-       and
                         Corporation Howmedica     cations      Howmedica
                                                                    
                         ----------- ---------  -------------  ----------
<S>                         <C>       <C>        <C>            <C>
Net sales                   $980,135  $820,708                  $1,800,843
Cost of sales                397,766   295,606   ($34,194) (13)    659,178
                            --------  --------  --------          --------
Gross profit                 582,369   525,102     34,194        1,141,665
                                                                          
Operating expenses:                                                       
 Research, development                                                    
  and engineering             56,895    50,102                     106,997
 Selling, general and                                                     
  administrative             341,500   325,831     34,194  (13)    757,209
                                                   27,887  (14)              
                                                   27,797  (15)              
 Pfizer corporate and                                                     
  division overhead                                                       
  costs                                 27,031                      27,031
                            --------  --------  --------          --------
                             398,395   402,964    89,878           891,237
                            --------  --------  --------          --------
Operating income             183,974   122,138   (55,684)          250,428
                                                                          
Interest expense                                (121,454) (16)    (121,454)
                                                                          
Other income (expense)        11,346  (32,907)    27,887  (14)       2,745
                                                   3,702  (17)               
                                                 (10,895) (18)             
                                                   3,612  (19)               
                            --------  --------  --------          --------
Earnings before income                                                    
 taxes                       195,320    89,231  (152,832)          131,719
Income taxes                  70,000    34,343   (58,076) (20)      46,267
                            --------  --------  --------          --------
Net earnings                $125,320   $54,888  ($94,756)          $85,452
                            ========  ========  ========          ========
Net earnings per share                                                    
 of common stock:
  Basic                       $1.30                                  $0.89
                              =====                                  =====
  Diluted                     $1.28                                  $0.87
                              =====                                  =====
Weighted-average shares                                                   
 outstanding for the
 period:
  Basic                       96,254                                96,254
  Diluted                     98,132                                98,132

See accompanying notes to unaudited pro forma condensed consolidated
financial statements.
</TABLE>

<TABLE>

STRYKER CORPORATION AND HOWMEDICA
UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED STATEMENTS OF EARNINGS
(Amounts in thousands, except per share amounts)


                             For Nine Months Ended September 30, 1998
                         ------------------------------------------------
                                                 
                                                 Pro Forma      Pro Forma
                                                Adjustments      Stryker
                                                    and        Corporation
                          Stryker               Reclassifi-        and
                        Corporation  Howmedica    cations       Howmedica
                                                                    
                        -----------  --------- -------------   ----------
<S>                        <C>        <C>       <C>             <C>
Net sales                  $781,826   $595,268                  $1,377,094
Cost of sales               324,680    211,937 ($28,150) (13)      508,467
                           --------   -------- --------           --------
Gross profit                457,146    383,331   28,150            868,627
                                                                          
Operating expenses:                                                       
 Research, development                                                    
  and engineering            41,428     38,249                      79,677
 Selling, general and                                                     
  administrative            263,451    248,996   28,150  (13)      570,024
                                                  8,579  (14)                
                                                 20,848  (15)               
 Pfizer corporate and                                                     
  division overhead                                                       
  costs                                 25,892                      25,892
                           --------   -------- --------           --------
                            304,879    313,137   57,577            675,593
                           --------   -------- --------           --------
Operating income            152,267     70,194  (29,427)           193,034
                                                                          
Interest expense                                (88,653) (16)      (88,653)
                                                                          
Other income (expense)       10,823   (11,712)    8,579  (14)        3,915
                                                  2,020  (17)                
                                                 (8,691) (18)               
                                                  2,896  (19)                
                           --------   -------- --------           --------
Earnings before income                                                    
 taxes                      163,090     58,482 (113,276)           108,296
Income taxes                 57,080     22,283  (43,045) (20)       36,318
                           --------   -------- --------           --------
Net earnings               $106,010    $36,199 ($70,231)           $71,978
                           ========   ======== ========           ========
Net earnings per share                                                    
 of common stock:
  Basic                       $1.10                                 $0.75
                              =====                                  =====
  Diluted                     $1.08                                 $0.73
                              =====                                  =====
Weighted-average shares                                                   
 outstanding for the
 period:
  Basic                      96,253                                 96,253
  Diluted                    98,040                                 98,040


See accompanying notes to unaudited pro forma condensed consolidated
financial statements.
</TABLE>


STRYKER CORPORATION AND HOWMEDICA
NOTES TO UNAUDITED PRO FORMA CONDENSED CONSOLIDATED FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
(Amounts in thousands)


The Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements have been
prepared to reflect the acquisition of Howmedica accounted for under the
purchase method of accounting.  The Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed
Consolidated Balance Sheet assumes that the acquisition was completed as of
September 30, 1998 and the Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Consolidated
Statements of Earnings assume that the acquisition was completed on January
1, 1997.  The acquisition was completed on December 4, 1998.

All interim financial data used to develop the Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed
Consolidated Financial Statements are unaudited, but in the opinion of
management, include all adjustments, consisting of normal recurring accruals,
necessary for a fair presentation thereof.

The Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Consolidated Statements of Earnings are
based on the historical Consolidated Financial Statements of Stryker
Corporation and the historical Combined Financial Statements of Howmedica.
The historical Unaudited Combined Financial Statements of Howmedica used to
prepare the Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Consolidated Balance Sheet as of
September 30, 1998 and the Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Consolidated
Statements of Earnings for the nine months ended September 30, 1998 actually
reflect results as of and for the nine months ended September 27, 1998.  The
difference between that date and September 30, 1998 was not deemed
significant.  As a result, no pro forma adjustments were made to reflect the
impact of the difference in dates.  For purposes of the historical Combined
Financial Statements of Howmedica, Pfizer allocated certain corporate and
division overhead costs to Howmedica.  These allocated costs totaled
$27,031,000 and $25,892,000 for the year ended December 31, 1997 and for the
nine months ended September 27, 1998, respectively.

The Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Consolidated Statements of Earnings are not
necessarily indicative of operating results which would have been achieved
had the acquisition occurred as of January 1, 1997 and should not be
construed as representative of future earnings.  The Unaudited Pro Forma
Condensed Consolidated Statements of Earnings do not include any benefits
from synergies that may result from the acquisition.

The excess of the estimated aggregate purchase price for Howmedica and
purchase liabilities over the fair value of net tangible assets acquired was
preliminarily allocated to specific intangible asset categories and is being
amortized over the estimated periods of benefit associated with each
category.  The final allocations may be different from the amounts reflected
herein.  The amount of goodwill reported in the Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed
Consolidated Balance Sheet differs from the amount of goodwill recorded by
the Company at December 4, 1998 due to the difference in Howmedica's net
assets at September 30, 1998 as compared to the actual net assets as of the
acquisition date.

Following is a description of pro forma adjustments reflected in the
Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Consolidated Financial Statements:

(1)  Represents the payment of cash and marketable securities totaling
$272,871 and the debt established to fund the acquisition.  The long-term
debt was borrowed under an agreement through which $1,650,000 in Senior
Secured Credit Facilities are available to the Company.  The Senior Secured
Credit Facilities provide for $1,150,000 in term loans extending over six to
eight years, a six-year $250,000 U.S. revolving credit facility and a six-
year $250,000 reducing multi-currency facility.  Borrowings shown under the
facilities reflect amounts necessary to pay the remaining purchase price not
paid with cash, to pay deferred loan costs of $25,493 and to refinance
$69,331 of outstanding Japanese yen borrowing.  The actual amount of Japanese
yen refinanced at December 4, 1998 on a U.S. dollar equivalent basis
increased to $78,316 as a result of foreign currency exchange changes.

(2)  Represents the elimination of intercompany receivables and payables due
between Howmedica and Pfizer entities as of September 30, 1998.

(3)  Represents the net adjustment to fair value of Howmedica's inventories.
The Company recorded a $74,200 decrease in inventories to conform to the
Company's methodologies and stepped-up the remaining inventory by $221,000 to
fair value.  The effects of this adjustment on cost of sales has not been
reflected in the Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Consolidated Statements of
Earnings since it is non-recurring.

(4)  Represents the elimination of certain items included on Howmedica's
balance sheet which will not be transferred to Stryker Corporation in
accordance with the terms of the purchase agreement underlying the
acquisition.

(5)  Represents the recording of purchase liabilities arising in connection
with the transaction, including severance payments and other reorganization
costs, as well as the related deferred tax benefit.

(6)  Represents a write-up to fair value of property, plant and equipment
acquired.

(7)  Represents the elimination of Howmedica's historical goodwill and other
intangibles.

(8)  Represents a reclassification of Stryker Corporation's historical
goodwill and other intangibles to conform with the pro forma presentation.

(9)  Represents the recording of goodwill and other intangibles arising from
the acquisition on a pro forma basis.  The actual goodwill recorded at
December 4, 1998 differs from this amount due to differences in Howmedica's
net assets at that date.  In addition, the amounts assigned to goodwill and
other intangibles are based on a preliminary purchase price allocation and
are subject to adjustment during 1999.

(10) Represents a write-down to fair value of loaner instruments acquired.

(11) Represents the write-off of purchased research and development of
$78,400 net of a deferred income tax benefit of $26,656.

(12) Represents the elimination of Howmedica's historical equity, including
accumulated other comprehensive loss.

(13) Represents the reclassification of amortization of Howmedica loaner
instruments included in deferred charges to conform with Stryker
Corporation's presentation.

(14) Represents the reclassification of certain amounts included in other
expense by Howmedica to conform with Stryker Corporation's presentation.

(15) Represents amortization of goodwill and other intangibles related to the
acquisition.  This amortization is based on the preliminary allocation to
specific intangible asset categories of the excess of the purchase price and
purchase liabilities over the fair value of net tangible assets acquired
using estimated periods of benefit associated with the specific intangible
asset categories.  The aggregate purchase price has been allocated on a
preliminary basis to the assets acquired and liabilities assumed based on
their estimated fair values at date of acquisition, as valued by an
independent appraiser using information and assumptions provided by
management.

     The $221,000 step-up of Howmedica's inventory to fair value at date of
acquisition and the $78,400 write-off of purchased research and development
are not reflected in the Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed Consolidated
Statements of Earnings.  The purchased research and development has been
charged to operations during the fourth quarter of 1998 and the inventory
step-up will be charged off as additional non-recurring cost of sales as the
acquired inventory is sold.

(16) Represents the estimated increase in interest expense and amortization
of deferred loan costs resulting from the debt financing obtained by Stryker
Corporation in connection with the acquisition of Howmedica.  The interest
expense shown for the periods presented is calculated using interest rates in
effect in January 1999 with a portion of the interest rate fixed under the
Company's interest rate swap agreement which was effective beginning in
January 1999.  Interest expense and deferred loan cost amortization decline
slightly in the nine months ended September 30, 1998 as a result of required
debt repayments which begin in the second year of the loans under the debt
repayment schedule.

(17) Represents the elimination of interest expense on Stryker Corporation's
previous Japanese yen denominated debt which was refinanced through the
proceeds of the debt financing obtained in connection with the acquisition.

(18) Represents an adjustment to eliminate interest income earned by Stryker
Corporation on cash and marketable securities of $272,871 used to pay a
portion of the purchase price for Howmedica.

(19) Represents the elimination of amounts recorded by Howmedica for
amortization of goodwill and other intangible assets.

(20) Represents the estimated tax effect of the Unaudited Pro Forma Condensed
Consolidated Statements of Earnings' pro forma adjustments based on rates
applicable to those adjustments.

          (c)  Exhibits
          
               Exhibit     
               Number      Description
               -------     ------------
                           
               2.1*        Form of Stock and Asset Purchase
                           Agreement, dated as of August 13, 1998,
                           between Pfizer Inc. and the Company (the
                           "Purchase Agreement").
                           
               2.2*        Form of Amendment No. 1, dated as of
                           October 22, 1998, to the Purchase
                           Agreement.
                           
               10.1*       Form of Credit and Guaranty Agreement,
                           dated as of December 4, 1998, among the
                           Company, certain subsidiaries of the
                           Company, as guarantors, the Lenders named
                           therein and certain other parties.
                           
               23.1        Consent of KPMG LLP.
                           


                *Previously filed with the Initial 8-K.





                                 SIGNATURES
                                      
     
     
     Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934,
the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the
undersigned hereunto duly authorized.



Date: February 19, 1999

                              
                              STRYKER CORPORATION
                              
                              
                              
                              By:  /s/  David J. Simpson
                                   Vice President, Chief
                                   Financial Officer and Secretary
                                   
                                   
                                   
                                   
                                   
                                   
                                EXHIBIT INDEX
                                      
                                   
Exhibit Number      Description
                    
- --------------      -----------
                    
     2.1*           Form of Stock and Asset Purchase Agreement, dated
                    as of August 13, 1998, between Pfizer Inc. and
                    the Company (the "Purchase Agreement").
                    
     2.2*           Form of Amendment No. 1, dated as of October 22,
                    1998, to the Purchase Agreement.
                    

     10.1*          Form of Credit and Guaranty Agreement, dated as
                    of December 4, 1998, among the Company, certain
                    subsidiaries of the Company, as guarantors, the
                    Lenders named therein and certain other parties.
                    
     23.1           Consent of KPMG LLP.
                    

     *Previously filed with the Initial 8-K.





                                                                 Exhibit 23.1



CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT CERTIFIED PUBLIC ACCOUNTANTS


The Board of Directors
Pfizer Inc.:


We consent to the incorporation by reference in the following registration
statements:

*    File No. 33-55662 on Form S-8,
*    File No. 2-96467 on Form S-8,
*    File No. 33-32240 on Form S-8

of Stryker Corporation of our report dated September 9, 1998, with respect to
the combined balance sheets of Howmedica, a Business of Pfizer Inc. as of
December 31, 1997 and 1996, and the related combined statements of income and
cash flows for each of the years in the three-year period ended December 31,
1997, which report appears in the Form 8-K/A of Stryker Corporation dated
February 19, 1999.



                                             /s/ KPMG LLP



New York, New York
February 17, 1999







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