PUBLISHER: Fortune Business Insights Pvt. Ltd. | PRODUCT CODE: 1880632
PUBLISHER: Fortune Business Insights Pvt. Ltd. | PRODUCT CODE: 1880632
The global natural absorbable sutures market continues to expand steadily, fueled by rising surgical volumes and increasing demand for biocompatible wound closure materials. According to the latest estimates, the market was valued at USD 921.8 million in 2024, supported by strong usage in general surgery, gynecology, cardiology, and orthopedics. The value is projected to rise to USD 959.2 million in 2025, driven by a growing geriatric population and increasing prevalence of chronic diseases requiring surgical intervention. By 2032, the market is expected to reach USD 1,498.4 million, reflecting a healthy CAGR of 6.6% during the forecast period.
Natural absorbable sutures, typically made from purified connective tissue obtained from healthy sheep intestines, are widely used for internal surgical procedures. Their ability to biodegrade within the body eliminates the need for suture removal, making them ideal for deep and difficult-to-access surgical sites. Higher biocompatibility and reduced tissue reaction further enhance their preference over non-absorbable alternatives in internal wound management.
Market Drivers
Growing Geriatric Population & Rising Surgical Procedures
The global increase in the elderly population is significantly boosting market growth, as older individuals undergo a higher percentage of cardiac surgeries, orthopedic procedures, and general surgeries. Natural absorbable sutures are crucial for postoperative wound closure in these cases. For example, the Australian Institute of Health and Welfare reported 12,700 coronary artery bypass graft (CABG) procedures performed between 2021 and 2022. Similarly, the demand for aesthetic surgeries is growing, with the International Society of Aesthetic Plastic Surgery recording over 352,000 gynecomastia procedures globally in 2023, further driving suture usage.
Market Restraints
Rising Use of Alternative Wound Closure Methods
The adoption of surgical staplers, tissue adhesives, and synthetic absorbable sutures is increasingly limiting the uptake of natural sutures. Synthetic options made from PGA and PLA offer improved durability and predictable absorption rates. According to Unisur Lifecare (2024), skin staplers significantly reduce operating time and are preferred in emergency wound closures, challenging the demand for natural absorbable sutures.
Market Opportunities
Expanding Healthcare Infrastructure in Emerging Economies
Developing nations are witnessing substantial medical infrastructure expansion and rising surgical volumes. Governments are investing heavily in new hospitals, specialty clinics, and advanced surgical departments. The USD 723.3 million investment by New South Wales into the Tweed Valley Hospital, opened in May 2024, is an example of increasing institutional capacities that support market growth.
Market Challenges
Complications Associated with Natural Sutures
Catgut-based sutures may trigger inflammatory reactions and increase infection risk, leading surgeons to shift toward synthetic options. Variations in tensile strength, potential hypersensitivity, and higher infection susceptibility limit adoption, particularly in advanced healthcare settings with stringent infection-control protocols.
Stringent Regulatory Approval Requirements
Manufacturers must comply with rigorous regulations from authorities such as the U.S. FDA and EMA. Extensive clinical validation and strict quality documentation extend development timelines and increase costs, creating challenges for smaller companies aiming to launch new natural suture products.
Market Trends
Growing Adoption of Chromic Catgut Sutures
Chromic catgut sutures are increasingly used due to their improved tensile strength and reduced infection risk, achieved through the treatment of sutures in chromic salt solutions. Their low cost and biodegradability make them a preferred option in multiple surgical procedures.
Rising Use in Minimally Invasive Surgeries
Surgeons performing laparoscopic and gynecological procedures are increasingly opting for natural absorbable sutures due to their smooth absorption profile, biocompatibility, and suitability for internal tissue closures.
North America - Market Leader (USD 333.4 Million in 2024)
North America dominated the market in 2024 with 36.16% share, supported by advanced healthcare infrastructure and high surgical volumes. Medical events such as FIME 2025, where Dolphin Sutures showcased its natural dissolvable sutures, further enhance product visibility and regional adoption.
Europe
Europe holds a significant share driven by a high burden of orthopedic, cardiac, and general surgeries. More than 42,000 orthopedic operations were recorded in England in 2022, demonstrating strong regional demand.
Asia Pacific
Asia Pacific is projected to grow at the highest CAGR due to medical tourism, rising surgical volumes, and expanding hospital infrastructure across India, China, and Southeast Asia.
Latin America & Middle East/Africa
Growth remains steady, supported by increasing surgical procedures and higher adoption of low-cost natural sutures in local healthcare facilities.
Conclusion
With global value increasing from USD 921.8 million in 2024 to USD 1,498.4 million by 2032, the natural absorbable sutures market is poised for steady growth. Rising surgical demand, aging populations, and improvements in medical infrastructure will continue to drive expansion, despite challenges posed by alternative wound closure methods and regulatory complexities.
Segmentation By Product, Material, Application, End-user, and Region
By Product * Monofilament
By Material * Catgut Chromic Sutures
By Application * Gynecology
By End-user * Hospitals & ASCs
By Region * North America (by Product, by Material, by Application, by End-user, and by Country/Sub-Region)