Symmetry Surgical (SSRG) 10-Q 19 Dec 14 2014 Q3 Quarterly report Financial data

DOCUMENT_AND_ENTITY_INFORMATIO

DOCUMENT AND ENTITY INFORMATION	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014	Dec. 15, 2014
Document and Entity Information [Abstract]
Entity Registrant Name	Symmetry Surgical Inc.
Entity Central Index Key	1616101
Current Fiscal Year End Date	-2
Entity Filer Category	Non-accelerated Filer
Trading Symbol	ssrg
Entity Common Stock, Shares Outstanding		9,586,845
Document Type	10-Q
Amendment Flag	FALSE
Document Period End Date	27-Sep-14
Document Fiscal Period Focus	Q3
Document Fiscal Year Focus	2014

CONDENSED_COMBINED_BALANCE_SHE

CONDENSED COMBINED BALANCE SHEETS (USD $)	Sep. 27, 2014	Dec. 28, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
ASSETS:
Cash	$1,319	$648
Accounts receivable, net	10,515	13,531
Inventories, net	23,642	17,015
Deferred income taxes	2,407	2,231
Other current assets	1,582	1,664
Total current assets	39,465	35,089
Property and equipment, net	2,804	3,288
Deferred income taxes	3,903	2,003
Goodwill	52,452	62,995
Intangible assets, net of accumulated amortization	77,772	81,856
Other assets	214	220
Total Assets	176,610	185,451
LIABILITIES AND SHAREHOLDERS' EQUITY:
Accounts payable	7,590	7,007
Due to Symmetry OEM Solutions	544	2,031
Accrued wages and benefits	2,845	2,120
Other accrued expenses	782	1,491
Accrued income taxes	70	23
Total current liabilities	11,831	12,672
Other long-term liabilities	988	951
Total Liabilities	12,819	13,623
Commitments and contingencies
Shareholders' Equity:
Net parent investment	164,120	171,989
Accumulated other comprehensive loss	-329	-161
Total Parent Company Equity	163,791	171,828
Total Liabilities and Equity	$176,610	$185,451

CONDENSED_COMBINED_STATEMENTS_

CONDENSED COMBINED STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013
Income Statement [Abstract]
Revenue - third parties	$20,175	$22,278	$61,045	$66,620
Revenue - Symmetry OEM Solutions	278	13	443	48
Total revenue	20,453	22,291	61,488	66,668
Cost of revenue	11,436	11,422	34,153	34,969
Gross profit	9,017	10,869	27,335	31,699
Sales and marketing expenses	4,147	4,782	12,952	14,873
General and administrative expenses	4,527	5,224	13,617	16,050
Asset impairment	0	19,809	10,500	19,809
Operating income (loss)	343	-18,946	-9,734	-19,033
Other (income) expense:
Derivatives valuation loss	0	5	0	242
Other	22	63	166	-43
Income (loss) before income taxes	321	-19,014	-9,900	-19,232
Income tax expense (benefit)	46	-6,710	-3,661	-6,707
Net income (loss)	$275	($12,304)	($6,239)	($12,525)

CONDENSED_COMBINED_STATEMENTS_1

CONDENSED COMBINED STATEMENTS OF COMPREHENSIVE INCOME (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013
Statement of Comprehensive Income [Abstract]
Net income (loss)	$275	($12,304)	($6,239)	($12,525)
Other comprehensive income (loss):
Foreign currency translation adjustments	-155	11	-185	4
Pension plan actuarial gain (loss), net of taxes	11	-3	17	7
Comprehensive income (loss)	$131	($12,296)	($6,407)	($12,514)

CONDENSED_COMBINED_STATEMENTS_2

CONDENSED COMBINED STATEMENTS OF CASH FLOW (USD $)	9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013
Operating activities
Net loss	($6,239)	($12,525)
Adjustments to reconcile net income to net cash provided by operating activities:
Depreciation	712	846
Amortization	4,034	3,685
Net loss on sale of assets	79	423
Asset impairment	10,500	19,806
Deferred income tax provision	-2,082	863
Stock-based compensation	564	444
Derivative valuation loss	0	242
Foreign currency transaction loss	41	133
Change in operating assets and liabilities:
Accounts receivable	2,772	6,330
Due to Symmetry OEM Solutions	-1,487	792
Other assets	126	309
Inventories	-6,627	-124
Current income taxes	51	3
Accounts payable	723	-537
Accrued expenses and other	146	636
Net cash provided by operating activities	3,313	21,326
Investing activities
Purchases of property and equipment	-314	-1,374
Proceeds from sale of property and equipment	3	549
Net cash used in investing activities	-311	-825
Financing activities
Net transfers to Parent	-2,194	-20,417
Net cash used in financing activities	-2,194	-20,417
Effect of exchange rate changes on cash	-137	-10
Net increase in cash	671	74
Cash at beginning of period	648	162
Cash at end of period	$1,319	$236

Description_of_Operations

Description of Operations	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Nature of Operations [Abstract]
Description of Operations	Description of Operations
	Overview
	The Symmetry Surgical Business (the “Business”) is a global marketer and distributor of medical devices with some limited manufacturing focused on the general surgery market. The Business offers over 20,000 products and sells primarily to hospitals and surgical centers in the U.S. and over 100 countries worldwide. The Business's current product portfolio includes a broad range of reusable stainless steel and titanium, hand-held general and specialty surgical instruments, single use and disposable instruments, electro-surgery instruments, retractor systems, and containers and sterilization devices sold directly to hospitals and other sites of care. These products are typically used in the surgical specialties of neurosurgery, spine, general surgery - open and laparoscopy, microsurgery, OB/Gyn, ophthalmology, otolaryngology / ENT, plastic / reconstructive, peripheral vascular, arthroscopy, orthopedic, pediatrics, cardiovascular, thoracic, and urology in the hospital setting as well as surgery centers and in select physician offices. These products are viewed in two categories by management; Symmetry Surgical Branded Products and Alliance Partners Products. Symmetry Surgical Branded Products include all products sold under brand names managed by the Business whereas Alliance Partners Products are brands the Business distributes for others in defined markets.
	Separation from Symmetry Medical Inc.
	In August 2014 Symmetry Medical Inc. (“SMI”) announced that it had entered into an Agreement and Plan of Merger, dated as of August 4, 2014 (the “Merger Agreement”), by and among SMI, TecoStar Holdings, Inc., Tecomet, Inc., and TecoSym, Inc. (“Merger Sub”), pursuant to which Merger Sub was merged with and into SMI, with SMI continuing as the surviving corporation (the “Merger”). As a result of the Merger, all of the outstanding shares of common stock of Symmetry Surgical Inc. ( the "Company"), were spun-off to SMI’s stockholders and the holder of each outstanding share of common stock of SMI received one-quarter of a share of common stock of Symmetry Surgical. This is referred to as the “Spin-Off.”
	In connection with the Spin-Off, SMI entered into a Separation Agreement, dated as of August 4, 2014 (the “Separation Agreement”) with the Company. Pursuant to the Separation Agreement, SMI transferred all of the assets and liabilities of its Symmetry Surgical Business to the Company prior to the consummation of the Merger and the Spin-Off. The Separation Agreement provides for various agreements and arrangements governing the Company's relationship with SMI after the Spin-Off. These agreements are discussed further in Note 14.
	The Business includes the combined operations of Specialty Surgical Instrumentation, Inc. (d/b/a Symmetry Surgical Inc.), Olsen Medical, LLC, Symmetry Surgical Netherlands, CV, Symmetry Surgical Netherlands, BV, Symmetry Surgical France SAS, Symmetry Medical Germany, GmbH and Symmetry Surgical Switzerland, GmbH all of which were subsidiaries of SMI prior to the Merger and Spin-Off.

Basis_of_Presentation

Basis of Presentation	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Abstract]
Basis of Presentation	Basis of Presentation
	The condensed combined financial statements of the Business have been prepared without audit, pursuant to the rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC"). Certain information and footnote disclosures normally included in financial statements prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles ("GAAP") have been condensed or omitted pursuant to such rules and regulations. In the opinion of management, the accompanying condensed combined financial statements contain all adjustments of a normal recurring nature considered necessary to present fairly the combined financial position of the Business, its results of operations and cash flows. The Business’s results are subject to seasonal fluctuations. Interim results are not necessarily indicative of results for a full year. The condensed combined financial statements included herein should be read in conjunction with combined financial statements and the notes thereto included in the Company's Registration Statement on Form S-4 (File No. 333-198596) filed with the SEC on September 5, 2014 and any amendments thereto.
	The Business’s fiscal year is the 52 or 53 week period ending on the Saturday closest to December 31. Fiscal year 2014 is a 53 week year ending January 3, 2015.  The Business’s interim quarters for 2014 are 13 weeks long, except for the fourth quarter which will be 14 weeks long and quarter-end dates have been set as March 29, 2014, June 28, 2014 and September 27, 2014. Fiscal year 2013 was a 52 week year (ending December 28, 2013). The Business’s interim quarters for 2013 were 13 weeks long, ending March 30, 2013, June 29, 2013 and September 28, 2013. References in these condensed combined financial statements to the three months ended refer to these financial periods, respectively.

Recently_Adopted_Accounting_Pr

Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Abstract]
Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements	Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements
	Reporting of Amounts Reclassified Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income:   In February 2013, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”), issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2013-2, Comprehensive Income (Topic 220): Reporting of Amounts Reclassified Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, (“ASU 2013-2”). ASU 2013-2 requires entities to report either on the statement of operations or disclose in the footnotes to the combined financial statements the effects on earnings from items that are reclassified out of comprehensive income. For amounts that are not required to be reclassified in their entirety to net income, an entity is required to cross-reference to other disclosures that provide additional details about those amounts. ASU 2013-2 is effective prospectively for the first reporting period after December 15, 2012 with early adoption permitted. The adoption of ASU 2013-2 did not have an impact on the Business’s combined financial position, results of operations or cash flows as it only enhances disclosures.
	Technical Corrections and Improvements:  In October 2012, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”), issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2012-4, Technical Corrections and Improvements (“ASU 2012-4”), which covers a wide range of topics in the Accounting Standards Codification. These amendments include technical corrections and improvements to the Accounting Standards Codification and confirming amendments related to fair value measurements. ASU 2012-4 is effective for fiscal periods beginning after December 15, 2012. The adoption of ASU 2012-4 did not have an impact on the Business’s combined financial position, results of operations or cash flows as the Standard only clarified existing Codification.
	Revenue from Contracts with Customers:   In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606), which supersedes the revenue recognition requirements in Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) 605, Revenue Recognition. This ASU is based on the principle that revenue is recognized to depict the transfer of goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods and services. The ASU also requires additional disclosure about the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows arising from customer contracts, including significant judgments and changes in judgments and assets recognized from costs incurred to obtain or fulfill a contract. The effective date will be the first quarter of fiscal year 2017 using one of two retrospective application methods. The Business is currently assessing the potential impact of the adoption of ASU 2014-09 on its financial statements and related disclosures.
	Presentation of an Unrecognized Tax Benefit When a Net Operating Loss Carryforward, a Similar Tax Loss, or a Tax Credit Carryforward Exists:  In July 2013, the FASB issued ASU 2013-11 Income Taxes (Topic 740): Presentation of an Unrecognized Tax Benefit When a Net Operating Loss Carryforward, a Similar Tax Loss, or a Tax Credit Carryforward Exists. The new guidance is effective for fiscal year and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2013. The adoption of this ASU did not have an impact on the Business’s financial position, results of operations and cash flows.
	Reporting Discontinued Operations and Disclosures of Disposals of Components of an Entity:  In April 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-08, Presentation of Financial Statements (Topic 205) and Property, Plant and Equipment (Topic 360), Reporting Discontinued Operations and Disclosures of Disposals of Components of an Entity. This update modifies the requirements for reporting discontinued operations. Under the amendments in ASU 2014-08, the definition of discontinued operation has been modified to only include those disposals of an entity that represent a strategic shift that has (or will have) a major effect on an entity’s operations and financial results. This update also expands the disclosure requirements for disposals that meet the definition of a discontinued operation and requires entities to disclose information about disposals of individually significant components that do not meet the definition of discontinued operations. This update is effective for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2014. The Business does not expect this ASU to have an impact on its financial position, results of operations or cash flows.
	Accounting for Share-Based Payments When the Terms of an Award Provide That a Performance Target Could Be Achieved after the Requisite Service Period. In June, 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-12, Accounting for Share-Based Payments When the Terms of an Award Provide That a Performance Target Could Be Achieved after the Requisite Service Period. This new guidance states that a performance target that affects vesting of a share-based payment and that could be achieved after the requisite service period is a performance condition under ASC 718. This update is effective for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2015. The Business does not believe this ASU will have an impact on the Business’s financial statements.
	Disclosure of Uncertainties about an Entity’s Ability to Continue as a Going Concern. In August, 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-15, Disclosure of Uncertainties about an Entity's Ability to Continue as a Going Concern. This new guidance requires management to evaluate whether there is substantial doubt about the entity’s ability to continue as a going concern and, if so, disclose that fact. Management will also be required to evaluate and disclose whether its plans alleviate that doubt. The standard is effective for annual periods ending after December 15, 2016 with early adoption permitted. The Business does not believe this ASU will have an impact on the Business’s financial statements.

Inventories

Inventories	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]
Inventories	Inventories
	Inventories consist of the following:
		September 27,		December 28,
		2014		2013
		(unaudited)
	Raw material and supplies	$	854	$	847
	Work-in-process	114		102
	Finished goods	22,674		16,066
		23,642		17,015

Property_and_Equipment

Property and Equipment	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Property and Equipment	Property and Equipment
	Property and equipment, including depreciable lives, consists of the following:
		September 27,			December 28,
		2014			2013
		(unaudited)
	Buildings and improvements (20 to 40 years)	$	518		$	503
	Machinery and equipment (5 to 15 years)	1,119			1,167
	Office equipment (3 to 5 years)	4,120			3,921
	Construction-in-progress	187			194
		5,944			5,785
	Less accumulated depreciation	(3,140		)	(2,497		)
		$	2,804		$	3,288

Goodwill_and_Other_Intangible_

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets	Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets
	The Business has one operating segment that represents the lowest level for which discrete financial information is available and the operating results are regularly reviewed by management.
	During 2014 and 2013, the Business determined that the expected operating results for the Symmetry Surgical reporting unit were projected to be substantially lower than previous forecasts. Given this information, the Business conducted its interim and annual impairment tests, as applicable, and determined that impairment existed. The Business recorded pre-tax non-cash charges of $10,500 in 2014 for goodwill and $20,105 in 2013 for goodwill and other assets and these charges have been recorded in the Business's combined statements of operations within asset impairment. The impairment was primarily driven by lower revenue due to a sluggish hospital spending environment in the U.S. and previously disclosed integration challenges related to the 2011 acquisition of the surgical instruments portfolio of Codman and Shurtleff, Inc. from which the Business has not recovered as quickly as previously expected.
	The Business determines the fair value of intangible assets using an income based approach. The approach calculates fair value by estimating the after-tax cash flows attributable to the asset and then discounting these after-tax cash flows to a present value using a risk-adjusted discount rate. The calculated fair value is compared to the carrying value to determine if any impairment exists.
	To derive the fair value of the reporting unit, as required in step one of the impairment test, the Business used the income approach, specifically the discounted cash flow method, to determine the fair value of the reporting unit and the associated amount of the impairment charges. This approach calculates fair value by estimating the after-tax cash flows attributable to a reporting unit and then discounting these after-tax cash flows to a present value using a risk-adjusted discount rate. This methodology is consistent with how the Business estimates the fair value of the reporting unit during its annual goodwill and indefinite lived intangible asset impairment tests. Inputs used to fair value the Business's reporting unit are considered Level 3 inputs of the fair value hierarchy and include the following:
	•	The Business's financial projections for this reporting unit are based on management's assessment of macroeconomic variables, industry trends and market opportunities, as well as the Business's strategic objectives and future growth plans. Revenue growth rates assumed in 2014 and 2013 for the Business's reporting unit were approximately 4-6% for 2015 and beyond.
	•	The discount rate used to measure the present value of the projected future cash flows is set using a weighted-average cost of capital method that considers market and industry data, as well as the Business's specific risk factors that are likely to be considered by a market participant.  The weighted-average cost of capital is the Business's estimate of the overall after-tax rate of return required by equity and debt holders of a business enterprise. The discount rate used was approximately 12.0% in 2014 and 12.5% in 2013.
	For Level 3 measurements, significant increases or decreases in long-term growth rates or discount rates in isolation or in combination could result in a significantly lower or higher fair value measurement.
	In the second step, the Business assigned the reporting unit's fair value to all of its assets and liabilities, including any unrecognized intangible assets, in a hypothetical analysis that calculates the implied fair value of goodwill in the same manner as if the reporting unit were being acquired in a business combination. If the implied fair value of the reporting unit's goodwill is less than the carrying value, the difference is recorded as an impairment charge. This allocation process was performed only for the purposes of measuring the goodwill impairment and not to adjust the carrying values of the recognized assets and liabilities.
	Prior to performing the annual goodwill impairment test step 1 analysis, the Business tested long-lived assets to be held and used for impairment on an undiscounted cash flow basis. Based on the results of this testing, no intangible assets were deemed impaired.
	As of September 27, 2014, the balances of intangible assets, other than goodwill, were as follows:
		Weighted-Average Amortization Period	Gross Intangible Assets			Accumulated Amortization			Net Intangible Assets
		(unaudited)	(unaudited)			(unaudited)			(unaudited)
	Acquired customers	19	$	91,700		$	(16,814	)	$	74,886
	Trademarks	10	3,325			(439		)	2,886
	Intangible assets subject to amortization	19	$	95,025		$	(17,253	)	$	77,772
	As of December 28, 2013, the balances of intangible assets, other than goodwill, were as follows:
		Weighted-Average Amortization Period	Gross Intangible Assets			Accumulated Amortization			Net Intangible Assets
		(unaudited)	(unaudited)			(unaudited)			(unaudited)
	Acquired customers	19	$	91,765		$	(13,124	)	$	78,641
	Trademarks	10	3,325			(110		)	3,215
	Intangible assets subject to amortization	19	$	95,090		$	(13,234	)	$	81,856
	The changes in the carrying amounts of goodwill for the periods ended December 29, 2012, December 28, 2013 and September 27, 2014 are as follows:
	Balance as of December 29, 2012		$	81,214
		Impairment of goodwill	(18,250		)
		Effects of foreign currency	31
	Balance as of December 28, 2013		$	62,995
		Impairment of goodwill (unaudited)	(10,500		)
		Effects of foreign currency (unaudited)	(43		)
	Balance as of September 27, 2014 (unaudited)		$	52,452

Fair_Value_of_Financial_Instru

Fair Value of Financial Instruments	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Fair Value Disclosures [Abstract]
Fair Value of Financial Instruments	Fair Value of Financial Instruments
	Accounting guidance establishes a three-tier fair value hierarchy, which prioritizes the inputs used in measuring fair value. These tiers include: Level 1, defined as observable inputs such as quoted prices in active markets; Level 2, defined as inputs other than quoted prices in active markets that are either directly or indirectly observable, and Level 3, defined as unobservable inputs in which little or no market data exists, therefore requiring an entity to develop its own assumptions.
	Certain nonfinancial assets and liabilities are measured at fair value on a nonrecurring basis and are subject to fair value adjustments in certain circumstances, such as when there is evidence of impairment. Assets and liabilities acquired in business combinations are recorded at their fair value as of the date of acquisition.
	The Business has performed annual and interim impairment tests for goodwill. The fair value of the reporting unit is determined using the income approach. The income approach focuses on the income-producing capability of an asset, measuring the current value of the asset by calculating the present value of its future economic benefits such as cash earnings, cost savings, tax structure and product offerings. Value indications are developed by discounting expected cash flows to their present value at a rate of return that incorporates the risk-free rate for the use of funds, the expected rate of inflation and risks associated with the reporting unit. These assets are classified within Level 3, in the event that the Business were required to measure and record such assets at fair value within its combined financial statements, as discussed in the Note 6, Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets.
	The Business periodically evaluates the carrying value of long-lived assets to be held and used, including definite-lived intangible assets and property plant and equipment, when events or circumstances warrant such a review. Fair value is determined primarily using anticipated cash flows assumed by a market participant, discounted at a rate commensurate with the risk involved and these assets would generally be classified within Level 3, in the event that the Business were required to measure and record such assets at fair value within its combined financial statements.
	Additionally, financial instruments also consist of cash, accounts receivable, and accounts payable. The fair value of cash and net accounts receivables and payables was estimated by management to approximate fair value due to the relatively short period of time to maturity for these instruments.

Derivatives

Derivatives	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities Disclosure [Abstract]
Derivatives	Derivatives
	The Business utilizes derivative instruments to minimize the volatility of cash flows and statement of operations impacts associated with the impact of fluctuations in foreign currency. The Business recognizes all derivative instruments as either assets or liabilities at fair value on the combined balance sheets. Derivative asset and liability amounts with the same counterparty are netted against each other for financial reporting purposes. The Business utilizes third party valuations to assist in the determination of the fair value of these derivatives. The Business considered its derivative instrument valuations to be Level 2 fair value measurements.
	In June and July 2012, the Business entered into forward swap contracts to mitigate the impact of fluctuations in foreign currency on the statement of operations. As of September 28, 2013, the Business had settled all of its outstanding forward swap contracts. These swap contracts were not designated as cash flow hedges and therefore the change in the fair value was immediately recorded in derivatives valuation loss in the combined statements of operations.

Net_Parent_Investment

Net Parent Investment	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Former Parent Company Investment [Abstract]
Net Parent Investment	Net Parent Investment
	Net parent investment represents SMI's initial investment in the Business, subsequent allocations of expenses, and advances and receipts of cash resulting from the operations of the U.S. business with SMI. The balance reflects the U.S. based Business’s participation in SMI’s U.S. centralized cash management program under which all of the U.S. Business’s cash receipts are remitted to SMI and all cash disbursements are funded by SMI. Other transactions affecting net parent investment include general and administrative expenses incurred by SMI and allocated to the Business. Changes in amounts owed to or due from SMI are included in transfers to parent, net in the combined statements of cash flows.

Related_Party_Transactions

Related Party Transactions	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Related Party Transactions [Abstract]
Related Party Transactions	Related Party Transactions
	Related party transactions of the Business include the purchase and sale of surgical instruments and cases between SMI's OEM Solutions Business and the Business, centralized cash and debt management in the U.S. and the allocation of certain general and administrative, selling and marketing and research and development expenses from SMI to the Business.
	Sales of surgical instruments and cases from the Business to SMI's OEM Solutions business are recorded at intercompany transfer prices and totaled $278 and $13 for the three month periods ended September 27, 2014 and September 28, 2013, respectively, and $443 and $48 for the nine month periods ended September 27, 2014 and September 28, 2013, respectively.
	Purchases of surgical instruments and cases from SMI's OEM Solutions business by the Business are recorded at intercompany transfer prices and totaled $2,080 and $1,575 for the three month periods ended September 27, 2014 and September 28, 2013, respectively, and $5,588 and $4,046 for the nine months ended September 27, 2014 and September 28, 2013, respectively.
	The U.S. based portion of the Business participates in SMI's U.S. centralized cash management program under which all of the U.S. Business’s cash receipts are remitted to SMI and all cash disbursements are funded by SMI. The cash receipts are not kept at specific accounts and are instead commingled with cash from other SMI entities. As cash is disbursed and received by SMI, it is accounted for through net parent investment.
	During fiscal 2014 and 2013, SMI provided various general and administrative and selling and marketing services to the Business including legal assistance, marketing services, human resources, financial reporting and analysis, information technology and insurance management, as well as research and development services.
	It is SMI's policy to charge these expenses first on the basis of direct usage when identifiable, with the remainder allocated among SMI’s subsidiaries on the basis of their respective revenue. These allocations totaled $1,550 and $1,928 for the three months ended September 27, 2014 and September 28, 2013, respectively, and $4,492 and $5,481 for the nine months ended September 27, 2014 and September 28, 2013, respectively. These changes may not be indicative of the actual expense that would have been incurred had the Business operated as an independent, publicly-traded company for the periods presented.

Income_Taxes

Income Taxes	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Income Taxes	Income Taxes
	The provision for income taxes differs from that computed at the Federal statutory rate of 35% in 2014 and 2013, respectively, as follows:
		Three Months Ended						Nine Months Ended
		27-Sep-14			28-Sep-13			27-Sep-14			28-Sep-13
		(unaudited)						(unaudited)
	Tax at Federal statutory rate	$	112		$	(6,655	)	$	(3,465	)	$	(6,731	)
	State income taxes	(5		)	(584		)	(315		)	(556		)
	Foreign income taxes	(86		)	(3		)	(141		)	(8		)
	Goodwill impairment	—			310			188			310
	Other	25			222			72			278
		$	46		$	(6,710	)	$	(3,661	)	$	(6,707	)

Commitments_and_Contingencies

Commitments and Contingencies	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Commitments and Contingencies	Commitments and Contingencies
	Unconditional Purchase Obligations.  The Business has a contract to purchase finished instruments through August 2019. Based on contractual pricing at September 27, 2014, the minimum purchase obligation totaled $2,367.  Purchases under the contract totals approximately $19 for the nine months ended September 27, 2014.  These purchases are not in excess of our forecasted requirements.
	Legal & Environmental Matters.   The Business is involved, from time to time, in various contractual, product liability, patent (or intellectual property) and other claims and disputes incidental to its Business. Currently, there is no environmental or other litigation pending or, to the knowledge of the Business, threatened, that the Business expects to have a material adverse effect on its financial condition, results of operations or liquidity. While litigation is subject to uncertainties and the outcome of litigated matters is not predictable with assurance, the Business currently believes that the disposition of all pending or, to the knowledge of the Business, threatened claims and disputes, individually or in the aggregate, should not have a material adverse effect on the Business's combined financial condition, results of operations or liquidity.
	Under the terms of the Separation Agreement between the Company and SMI, the Company is responsible for all liabilities of SMI arising prior to the Merger relating to the Business. As of the closing of the Merger, there were no amounts outstanding relating to the Business.
	In September 2013, Xodus Medical Inc., Alessio Pigazzi and Glenn Keilar (collectively “Xodus”) filed suit against Prime Medical, LLC (“Prime”), and Specialty Surgical Instrumentation, Inc. d/b/a Symmetry Surgical Inc. in the United States District Court for the Western District of Pennsylvania under cause number 2:13-cv-01372-AJS. In the lawsuit Xodus alleged that Prime, a manufacturer of products the Business distributes, had infringed on two of its patents, U.S. Patent No. 8,511,314 and US Patent No. 8,464,720 (the “Xodus Patents”) and that the Business was liable to it for damages for selling products that infringed on the Xodus Patents. The Business’s Distribution Agreement with Prime provides the Business with full indemnification for these claims, and Prime has paid for all costs of litigation thus far. On February 24, 2014 the U.S. Patent and Trademarks Office ("USPTO") found substantial questions regarding the patentability of the Xodus Patents and on July 10, 2014 the USPTO rejected both of the Xodus Patents. Xodus has appealed to the full Board of the USPTO, a process that could take over a year to conclude. Should the USPTO reverse its prior two findings, and should the US District Court find that Prime’s products infringe on the Xodus Patents, then the Business may be found liable to Xodus for some percentage of its sales of the Prime products, to the extent that Prime is unable to satisfy its indemnity obligations.

Product_and_Geographic_Informa

Product and Geographic Information	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Product and Geographic Information	Product and Geographic Information
	The Business has one operating segment which is the lowest level for which discrete financial information is available and the operating results are regularly reviewed by management. The Business sells a broad range of reusable stainless steel and titanium hand-held instruments and retractor systems, single use and sterile disposable surgical products (vein strippers, SECTO dissectors, tonsil sponges and surgical marker pens), and sterilization containers. These products are typically used in the surgical specialties of neurosurgery, spine, general surgery - open and laparoscopy, microsurgery, OB/Gyn, ophthalmology, otolaryngology / ENT, plastic / reconstructive, peripheral vascular, arthroscopy, orthopedic, pediatrics, cardiovascular, thoracic, and urology in the hospital setting as well as surgery centers centers and in select physician offices. These products are viewed in two categories by management; Symmetry Surgical Branded Products and Alliance Partners Products. Symmetry Surgical Branded Products include all products sold under brand names managed by the Business whereas Alliance Partners Products are brands the Business distributes for others in defined markets. The Business has operations in the U. S., Germany and Switzerland. As a result, the Business's financial results can be impacted by currency exchange rates in the foreign markets in which the Business sells its products. Revenues are attributed to geographic locations based on the location to which the Business ships its products.
	Revenues to External Customers:
		Three Months Ended				Nine Months Ended
	Revenue by Geography	27-Sep-14		28-Sep-13		27-Sep-14		28-Sep-13
		(unaudited)				(unaudited)
	United States	$	17,698	$	19,966	$	53,904	$	59,509
	International	2,755		2,325		7,584		7,159
	Total revenues	$	20,453	$	22,291	$	61,488	$	66,668
	Revenues by Product:
		Three Months Ended				Nine Months Ended
		27-Sep-14		28-Sep-13		27-Sep-14		28-Sep-13
		(unaudited)				(unaudited)
	Symmetry Surgical branded	$	18,242	$	18,432	$	52,948	$	55,642
	Alliance Partners	2,211		3,859		8,540		11,026
	Total Revenue	$	20,453	$	22,291	$	61,488	$	66,668

Subsequent_Events

Subsequent Events	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Subsequent Events [Abstract]
Subsequent Events	Subsequent Events
	Goodwill and intangible asset impairment. At the closing of the Spin-Off, which occurred on December 4, 2014, and during the period thereafter, the market valuation of the Company has been significantly below book value.  The Company determined this to be an indicator of impairment and; therefore, the Company performed step one of an impairment test resulting in the conclusion that impairment of goodwill and intangible assets existed.  While the analysis is preliminary and subject to change as the Company finalizes the appraisal of the fair values of certain intangible assets as well as property, plant and equipment, the Company currently estimates a pre-tax impairment charge to goodwill of $46,000 will be recorded during the fourth quarter of 2014.  The impairment was primarily driven by the market valuation of the Company combined with lower estimates of future cash flows due to a sluggish hospital spending environment in the U.S., previously disclosed integration challenges related to the 2011 acquisition of the surgical instruments portfolio of Codman and Shurtleff, Inc. from which the Business has not recovered as quickly as previously expected and reduced cost savings estimates for the post Spin-Off operations of the Company which have also been previously disclosed.
	Spin-Off. In connection with the Spin-Off, the Company and SMI entered into a Separation Agreement dated August 4, 2014. The Separation Agreement provides, among other things, for the principal corporate transactions required to effect the Spin-Off
	and certain other agreements governing the Company's relationship with SMI after the Spin-Off. These agreements are discussed below.
	•	A Separation Agreement that sets forth the arrangements between the Company and SMI with respect to the principal corporate transactions necessary to complete the Spin-Off, and a number of other principles governing the relationship between the Company and SMI following the Spin-Off;
	•	A Supply Agreement that is non-exclusive and will allow for SMI to supply products to the Company and for the Company to supply products to SMI;
	•	A Quality Agreement that addresses certain quality and regulatory issues relating to the supply of products under the Supply Agreement;
	•	A Transition Services Agreement that governs the provision of interim transition services between the Company and SMI; and
	•	A Shared Intellectual Property Cross License Agreement, pursuant to which the Company and SMI have granted to each other a worldwide, fully-paid, royalty-free, non-transferable, perpetual, and irrevocable license respecting certain shared intellectual property and software.
	A summary of certain important features of the Spin-Off Agreements can be found in the Company’s Registration
	Statement on Form S-4 (File No. 333-198596), filed with the SEC on September 5, 2014 (the
	“Registration Statement”), and the amendments thereto. The section of the Registration Statement entitled
	“Relationship between Symmetry Surgical and SMI Following Completion of the Spin-Off and the Merger
	Transaction” is incorporated by reference into this report on Form 10-Q.
	Debt and Credit Facilities. On December 5, 2014, Symmetry Surgical Inc., Specialty Surgical Instrumentation, Inc. and Olsen Medical, LLC (collectively, the “Borrowers”) entered into a Credit Agreement (the “Credit Agreement”) with General Electric Capital Corporation, which provides for a Revolving Loan of up to $20,000, subject to a borrowing base limitation. Any amounts outstanding under the Revolving Loan are due and payable on December 5, 2019. Amounts outstanding under the Credit Agreement bear interest at LIBOR plus 3.25%, or the Base Rate (which will generally be based on the prime rate as published by the Wall Street Journal from time to time) plus 2.25%.
	The Credit Agreement is guaranteed by Symmetry Surgical International, Inc., S.S.I.I. LP, LLC and Symmetry Medical SSI Real Estate LLC (collectively the “Guarantors”). The Revolving Loan is secured by a first-priority perfected security interest in substantially all of the tangible and intangible assets of the Borrowers and the Guarantors, including a pledge of 100% of the equity interests of each domestic subsidiary.
	The Credit Agreement includes customary covenants for facilities of this type, including limitations on indebtedness, liens, investments and acquisitions, loans and advances, mergers and consolidations, sales of assets, and dividends, stock repurchases and other restricted payments. In addition, the Credit Agreement requires that Borrowers maintain a minimum fixed charge coverage ratio of 1.25 to 1.00 tested at the close of each fiscal quarter, based on the preceding four fiscal quarters, and maintain at all times minimum liquidity (the sum of cash, cash equivalent and available borrowing capacity under the borrowing base) of $1,500, tested monthly.

Recently_Adopted_Accounting_Pr1

Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements (Policies)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
New Accounting Pronouncements and Changes in Accounting Principles [Abstract]
Recently Adopted Accounting Pronouncements	Reporting of Amounts Reclassified Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income:   In February 2013, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”), issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2013-2, Comprehensive Income (Topic 220): Reporting of Amounts Reclassified Out of Accumulated Other Comprehensive Income, (“ASU 2013-2”). ASU 2013-2 requires entities to report either on the statement of operations or disclose in the footnotes to the combined financial statements the effects on earnings from items that are reclassified out of comprehensive income. For amounts that are not required to be reclassified in their entirety to net income, an entity is required to cross-reference to other disclosures that provide additional details about those amounts. ASU 2013-2 is effective prospectively for the first reporting period after December 15, 2012 with early adoption permitted. The adoption of ASU 2013-2 did not have an impact on the Business’s combined financial position, results of operations or cash flows as it only enhances disclosures.
	Technical Corrections and Improvements:  In October 2012, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”), issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2012-4, Technical Corrections and Improvements (“ASU 2012-4”), which covers a wide range of topics in the Accounting Standards Codification. These amendments include technical corrections and improvements to the Accounting Standards Codification and confirming amendments related to fair value measurements. ASU 2012-4 is effective for fiscal periods beginning after December 15, 2012. The adoption of ASU 2012-4 did not have an impact on the Business’s combined financial position, results of operations or cash flows as the Standard only clarified existing Codification.
	Revenue from Contracts with Customers:   In May 2014, the FASB issued ASU No. 2014-09, Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606), which supersedes the revenue recognition requirements in Accounting Standards Codification (“ASC”) 605, Revenue Recognition. This ASU is based on the principle that revenue is recognized to depict the transfer of goods or services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods and services. The ASU also requires additional disclosure about the nature, amount, timing and uncertainty of revenue and cash flows arising from customer contracts, including significant judgments and changes in judgments and assets recognized from costs incurred to obtain or fulfill a contract. The effective date will be the first quarter of fiscal year 2017 using one of two retrospective application methods. The Business is currently assessing the potential impact of the adoption of ASU 2014-09 on its financial statements and related disclosures.
	Presentation of an Unrecognized Tax Benefit When a Net Operating Loss Carryforward, a Similar Tax Loss, or a Tax Credit Carryforward Exists:  In July 2013, the FASB issued ASU 2013-11 Income Taxes (Topic 740): Presentation of an Unrecognized Tax Benefit When a Net Operating Loss Carryforward, a Similar Tax Loss, or a Tax Credit Carryforward Exists. The new guidance is effective for fiscal year and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2013. The adoption of this ASU did not have an impact on the Business’s financial position, results of operations and cash flows.
	Reporting Discontinued Operations and Disclosures of Disposals of Components of an Entity:  In April 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-08, Presentation of Financial Statements (Topic 205) and Property, Plant and Equipment (Topic 360), Reporting Discontinued Operations and Disclosures of Disposals of Components of an Entity. This update modifies the requirements for reporting discontinued operations. Under the amendments in ASU 2014-08, the definition of discontinued operation has been modified to only include those disposals of an entity that represent a strategic shift that has (or will have) a major effect on an entity’s operations and financial results. This update also expands the disclosure requirements for disposals that meet the definition of a discontinued operation and requires entities to disclose information about disposals of individually significant components that do not meet the definition of discontinued operations. This update is effective for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2014. The Business does not expect this ASU to have an impact on its financial position, results of operations or cash flows.
	Accounting for Share-Based Payments When the Terms of an Award Provide That a Performance Target Could Be Achieved after the Requisite Service Period. In June, 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-12, Accounting for Share-Based Payments When the Terms of an Award Provide That a Performance Target Could Be Achieved after the Requisite Service Period. This new guidance states that a performance target that affects vesting of a share-based payment and that could be achieved after the requisite service period is a performance condition under ASC 718. This update is effective for annual and interim periods beginning after December 15, 2015. The Business does not believe this ASU will have an impact on the Business’s financial statements.
	Disclosure of Uncertainties about an Entity’s Ability to Continue as a Going Concern. In August, 2014, the FASB issued ASU 2014-15, Disclosure of Uncertainties about an Entity's Ability to Continue as a Going Concern. This new guidance requires management to evaluate whether there is substantial doubt about the entity’s ability to continue as a going concern and, if so, disclose that fact. Management will also be required to evaluate and disclose whether its plans alleviate that doubt. The standard is effective for annual periods ending after December 15, 2016 with early adoption permitted. The Business does not believe this ASU will have an impact on the Business’s financial statements.

Inventories_Tables

Inventories (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Inventory	Inventories consist of the following:
		September 27,		December 28,
		2014		2013
		(unaudited)
	Raw material and supplies	$	854	$	847
	Work-in-process	114		102
	Finished goods	22,674		16,066
		23,642		17,015

Property_and_Equipment_Tables

Property and Equipment (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Property, Plant and Equipment [Abstract]
Schedule of Property and Equipment	Property and equipment, including depreciable lives, consists of the following:
		September 27,			December 28,
		2014			2013
		(unaudited)
	Buildings and improvements (20 to 40 years)	$	518		$	503
	Machinery and equipment (5 to 15 years)	1,119			1,167
	Office equipment (3 to 5 years)	4,120			3,921
	Construction-in-progress	187			194
		5,944			5,785
	Less accumulated depreciation	(3,140		)	(2,497		)
		$	2,804		$	3,288

Goodwill_and_Other_Intangible_1

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Intangible Assets	As of September 27, 2014, the balances of intangible assets, other than goodwill, were as follows:
		Weighted-Average Amortization Period	Gross Intangible Assets			Accumulated Amortization			Net Intangible Assets
		(unaudited)	(unaudited)			(unaudited)			(unaudited)
	Acquired customers	19	$	91,700		$	(16,814	)	$	74,886
	Trademarks	10	3,325			(439		)	2,886
	Intangible assets subject to amortization	19	$	95,025		$	(17,253	)	$	77,772
	As of December 28, 2013, the balances of intangible assets, other than goodwill, were as follows:
		Weighted-Average Amortization Period	Gross Intangible Assets			Accumulated Amortization			Net Intangible Assets
		(unaudited)	(unaudited)			(unaudited)			(unaudited)
	Acquired customers	19	$	91,765		$	(13,124	)	$	78,641
	Trademarks	10	3,325			(110		)	3,215
	Intangible assets subject to amortization	19	$	95,090		$	(13,234	)	$	81,856
Schedule of Goodwill	The changes in the carrying amounts of goodwill for the periods ended December 29, 2012, December 28, 2013 and September 27, 2014 are as follows:
	Balance as of December 29, 2012		$	81,214
		Impairment of goodwill	(18,250		)
		Effects of foreign currency	31
	Balance as of December 28, 2013		$	62,995
		Impairment of goodwill (unaudited)	(10,500		)
		Effects of foreign currency (unaudited)	(43		)
	Balance as of September 27, 2014 (unaudited)		$	52,452

Income_Taxes_Tables

Income Taxes (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Schedule of Income Tax Reconciliation	The provision for income taxes differs from that computed at the Federal statutory rate of 35% in 2014 and 2013, respectively, as follows:
		Three Months Ended						Nine Months Ended
		27-Sep-14			28-Sep-13			27-Sep-14			28-Sep-13
		(unaudited)						(unaudited)
	Tax at Federal statutory rate	$	112		$	(6,655	)	$	(3,465	)	$	(6,731	)
	State income taxes	(5		)	(584		)	(315		)	(556		)
	Foreign income taxes	(86		)	(3		)	(141		)	(8		)
	Goodwill impairment	—			310			188			310
	Other	25			222			72			278
		$	46		$	(6,710	)	$	(3,661	)	$	(6,707	)

Product_and_Geographic_Informa1

Product and Geographic Information (Tables)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Schedule of Revenue from External Customers Attributed to Foreign Countries by Geographic Area	Revenues to External Customers:
		Three Months Ended				Nine Months Ended
	Revenue by Geography	27-Sep-14		28-Sep-13		27-Sep-14		28-Sep-13
		(unaudited)				(unaudited)
	United States	$	17,698	$	19,966	$	53,904	$	59,509
	International	2,755		2,325		7,584		7,159
	Total revenues	$	20,453	$	22,291	$	61,488	$	66,668
Schedule of Product Information	Revenues by Product:
		Three Months Ended				Nine Months Ended
		27-Sep-14		28-Sep-13		27-Sep-14		28-Sep-13
		(unaudited)				(unaudited)
	Symmetry Surgical branded	$	18,242	$	18,432	$	52,948	$	55,642
	Alliance Partners	2,211		3,859		8,540		11,026
	Total Revenue	$	20,453	$	22,291	$	61,488	$	66,668

Description_of_Operations_Deta

Description of Operations (Details)	Sep. 27, 2014
	country
Nature of Operations [Abstract]
Number of countries in which entity operates (over 100 countries)	100

Basis_of_Presentation_Details

Basis of Presentation (Details)	3 Months Ended							12 Months Ended	9 Months Ended	3 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014	Jun. 28, 2014	Mar. 29, 2014	Dec. 28, 2013	Sep. 28, 2013	Jun. 29, 2013	Mar. 30, 2013	Dec. 28, 2013	Sep. 27, 2014	Jan. 03, 2015	Jan. 03, 2015
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Line Items]
Number of weeks in fiscal year								364 days
Number of weeks in interim quarter	91 days	91 days	91 days	91 days	91 days	91 days	91 days
Minimum [Member]
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Line Items]
Number of weeks in fiscal year									364 days
Maximum [Member]
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Line Items]
Number of weeks in fiscal year									371 days
Scenario, Forecast [Member]
Organization, Consolidation and Presentation of Financial Statements [Line Items]
Number of weeks in fiscal year											371 days
Number of weeks in interim quarter										98 days

Inventories_Details

Inventories (Details) (USD $)	Sep. 27, 2014	Dec. 28, 2013
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified
Inventory Disclosure [Abstract]
Raw material and supplies	$854	$847
Work-in-process	114	102
Finished goods	22,674	16,066
Inventories, net	$23,642	$17,015

Property_and_Equipment_Details

Property and Equipment (Details) (USD $)	9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 27, 2014	Dec. 28, 2013
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, gross	5,944	$5,785
Less accumulated depreciation	-3,140	-2,497
Property and equipment, net	2,804	3,288
Buildings and Improvement [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, gross	518	503
Buildings and Improvement [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, useful life	20 years
Buildings and Improvement [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, useful life	40 years
Machinery and Equipment [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, gross	1,119	1,167
Machinery and Equipment [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, useful life	5 years
Machinery and Equipment [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, useful life	15 years
Office Equipment [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, gross	4,120	3,921
Office Equipment [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, useful life	3 years
Office Equipment [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, useful life	5 years
Construction-in-Progress [Member]
Property, Plant and Equipment [Line Items]
Property and equipment, gross	187	$194

Goodwill_and_Other_Intangible_2

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (Narrative) (Details) (USD $)	9 Months Ended		12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013	Dec. 28, 2013
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Goodwill, impairment	$10,500		$18,250
Impairment of intangible assets (including goodwill)		$20,105
Discount rate	12.00%	12.50%
For Year 2015 and Beyond [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Revenue growth rate	4.00%
For Year 2015 and Beyond [Member] | Maximum [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Revenue growth rate	6.00%

Goodwill_and_Other_Intangible_3

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (Balances of Intangible Assets, Other than Goodwill) (Details) (USD $)	9 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 27, 2014	Dec. 28, 2013
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Weighted-Average Amortization Period	19 years	19 years
Gross Intangible Assets	$95,025	$95,090
Accumulated Amortization	-17,253	-13,234
Net Intangible Assets	77,772	81,856
Acquired Customers [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Weighted-Average Amortization Period	19 years	19 years
Gross Intangible Assets	91,700	91,765
Accumulated Amortization	-16,814	-13,124
Net Intangible Assets	74,886	78,641
Trademarks [Member]
Finite-Lived Intangible Assets [Line Items]
Weighted-Average Amortization Period	10 years	10 years
Gross Intangible Assets	3,325	3,325
Accumulated Amortization	-439	-110
Net Intangible Assets	$2,886	$3,215

Goodwill_and_Other_Intangible_4

Goodwill and Other Intangible Assets (Reconciliation of Carrying Amounts of Goodwill) (Details) (USD $)	9 Months Ended	12 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 27, 2014	Dec. 28, 2013
Goodwill and Intangible Assets Disclosure [Abstract]
Balance	$62,995	$81,214
Impairment of goodwill	-10,500	-18,250
Effects of foreign currency	-43	31
Balance	$52,452	$62,995

Related_Party_Transactions_Det

Related Party Transactions (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Sales	$278	$13	$443	$48
Symmetry Medical Inc. [Member]
Related Party Transaction [Line Items]
Sales	278	13	443	48
Purchases	2,080	1,575	5,588	4,046
Expenses	$1,550	$1,928	$4,492	$5,481

Income_Taxes_Narrative_Details

Income Taxes (Narrative) (Details)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Federal statutory income tax rate	35.00%	35.00%

Income_Taxes_Provision_for_Inc

Income Taxes (Provision for Income Taxes) (Details) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013
Income Tax Disclosure [Abstract]
Tax at Federal statutory rate	$112	($6,655)	($3,465)	($6,731)
State income taxes	-5	-584	-315	-556
Foreign income taxes	-86	-3	-141	-8
Goodwill impairment	0	310	188	310
Other	25	222	72	278
Total	$46	($6,710)	($3,661)	($6,707)

Commitments_and_Contingencies_

Commitments and Contingencies (Details) (USD $)	9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 27, 2014
Commitments and Contingencies Disclosure [Abstract]
Unconditional purchase obligations contract price	$2,367
Unrecorded unconditional purchase obligation, purchases	$19

Product_and_Geographic_Informa2

Product and Geographic Information (Details Textual)	9 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014
	segment
Segment Reporting [Abstract]
Number of operating segments	1

Product_and_Geographic_Informa3

Product and Geographic Information (Details 1) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Revenue	$20,453	$22,291	$61,488	$66,668
United States [Member]
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Revenue	17,698	19,966	53,904	59,509
International [Member]
Revenues from External Customers and Long-Lived Assets [Line Items]
Revenue	$2,755	$2,325	$7,584	$7,159

Product_and_Geographic_Informa4

Product and Geographic Information (Details 2) (USD $)	3 Months Ended		9 Months Ended
In Thousands, unless otherwise specified	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013	Sep. 27, 2014	Sep. 28, 2013
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenue	$20,453	$22,291	$61,488	$66,668
Symmetry Surgical [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenue	18,242	18,432	52,948	55,642
Alliance Partners [Member]
Segment Reporting Information [Line Items]
Revenue	$2,211	$3,859	$8,540	$11,026

Subsequent_Events_Details

Subsequent Events (Details) (USD $)	9 Months Ended	12 Months Ended	0 Months Ended	3 Months Ended
	Sep. 27, 2014	Dec. 28, 2013	Dec. 05, 2014	Jan. 03, 2015
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Goodwill, impairment	$10,500,000	$18,250,000
Subsequent Event [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Maximum borrowing capacity			20,000,000
Subsequent Event [Member] | Credit Agreement [Member] | Minimum [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Fixed charge coverage ratio			1.25
Liquidity requirement			1,500,000
Subsequent Event [Member] | Credit Agreement [Member] | LIBOR [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Stated percentage			3.25%
Subsequent Event [Member] | Credit Agreement [Member] | Base Rate [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Stated percentage			2.25%
Scenario, Forecast [Member]
Subsequent Event [Line Items]
Goodwill, impairment				$46,000,000