NuVasive Results Top Estimates; FY Outlook Weak

(RTTNews) - Medical device maker NuVasive Inc (NUVA) on Tuesday reported fourth-quarter net earnings of $7.5 million or $0.15 per share compared with $6 million or $0.13 per share last year.

Results for the latest quarter included non-cash stock-based compensation of $8.9 million, among other one-time items.

Excluding items, adjusted earnings for the quarter were $0.39 per share compared with $0.37 per share a year ago.

The company's revenues for the quarter were up 7% at $204.3 million compared with $190.8 million in the prior year.

Analysts polled by Thomson Reuters estimated earnings of $0.37 per share on revenues of $201.4 million for the quarter. Analysts' estimates typically exclude special items.

Gross margin for the quarter rose to 77.2% from 74.1% last year, and operating margin climbed to 12% from 7.9%, the company said.

For the full year 2015, the company expects adjusted earnings of $1.10 per share on revenues of about $810 million, including about $10 million of currency headwinds. Analysts expect earnings of $1.53 per share on revenues of $811 million.

NuVasive develops minimally disruptive surgical products and procedurally integrated solutions for the spine.