Manufacturer sues former consultant

NAPLES — Medical manufacturer Arthrex says it has sued a former consultant it alleges misappropriated trade secrets.

Naples-based Arthrex, which manufactures more than 8,500 surgical tools for orthopedic surgeons, says it has sued KFx Medical and Joseph Tauro alleging misappropriation of trade secrets, unfair competition, breach of contract and interference.

From 2000 to 2004, Arthrex says it entered into a series of consulting agreements Tauro. Arthrex' lawsuit in New Jersey state court alleges Tauro worked with KFx to develop competing technology.