Lithotripsy Devices Market - Global Industry Size, Share, Trends, Opportunity, and Forecast, 2018-2028 Segmented By Type By Modality By Application By End User, By Region and Competition

Global Lithotripsy Devices Market has valued at USD 1.34 Billion in 2022 and is anticipated to project impressive growth in the forecast period with a CAGR of 4.76% through 2028. Lithotripsy refers to a non-invasive procedure utilized for the treatment of larger kidney stones that cannot pass through the urinary tract. Lithotripsy devices are employed to treat kidney stones, bile duct stones, pancreatic duct stones, and other stones by delivering ultrasonic energy or shock waves directly to the target stone with the aid of fluoroscopy or ultrasound. These devices employ various techniques to generate shockwaves that precisely target the stones while safeguarding surrounding organs and tissues from excessive shockwave energy. Lithotripsy devices are instrumental in the non-invasive treatment of kidney stones, utilizing shock waves or ultrasound waves to fragment large stones that are not passable through the urinary tract into smaller, manageable fragments. The lithotripsy procedure, a non-invasive surgical alternative, is employed to treat kidney stones of significant size that can traverse the urinary tract. By utilizing shock waves or sharp ultrasonic energy waves directed at the stones, which are previously located through fluoroscopy or ultrasound, the stones can be broken into smaller fragments that can be easily expelled via the urinary system. Lithotripsy affords individuals with certain types of urinary system stones the opportunity to avoid invasive surgical procedures for stone removal.

Key Market Drivers

Higher Prevalence of Kidney Stones

Kidney stones have become an increasingly prevalent urological condition globally, affecting a significant population that requires treatment. The rise in cases can be attributed to various factors, including sedentary lifestyles, genetic predisposition, unhealthy dietary habits, and inadequate hydration. As a result, the demand for effective treatment solutions for kidney stone removal and breakdown has surged, and lithotripsy devices have emerged as a preferred choice. Lithotripsy devices play a crucial role in addressing this growing need by providing non-invasive and highly effective treatment options. By utilizing advanced technology, these devices offer a safe and efficient method for breaking down and removing kidney stones. This not only alleviates the discomfort and pain experienced by patients but also reduces the reliance on invasive procedures.

For example, according to the United States Renal Data System's 2020 report, approximately 786,000 individuals in the U.S. are currently living with End-Stage Renal Disease (ESRD), also known as ESKD. Out of this population, 29% have undergone kidney transplant surgeries, while the remaining 71% rely on dialysis. Additionally, data from the American Kidney Fund reveals that around 37 million Americans suffer from various kidney diseases, highlighting the significant number of individuals with kidney disorders. Given the substantial patient population affected by kidney diseases, the demand for innovative lithotripsy devices continues to rise. These devices provide healthcare professionals with an effective tool to address the increasing prevalence of kidney stones and improve patient outcomes.

Rising Number of Advancements in Technology

The improved technological advancements in lithotripsy devices, such as enhanced precision and safety measures, have led to more efficient results and safer procedures. These advancements have played a significant role in driving the growth of the global lithotripsy devices market. In addition to the existing technologies, several new advanced techniques have been developed for kidney stone treatment. For instance, according to a research article published by the American Association for the Advancement of Science in 2022, two innovative techniques, namely Ultrasonic Propulsion and Burst Wave Lithotripsy, have been introduced. Burst Wave Lithotripsy (BWL) has emerged as a non-invasive technique that effectively breaks stones without causing any injury, pain, or the need for anesthesia. This remarkable progress in lithotripsy technology has paved the way for a rising number of technological advancements, further fueling the growth of the global lithotripsy devices market.

Rise in Number of Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy Procedures

The rise in the number of Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL) procedures is anticipated to significantly increase the demand for lithotripsy devices in the medical field. ESWL is a non-invasive alternative to traditional surgical procedures for kidney stones, making it an attractive option for both patients and healthcare providers. The non-invasive nature of ESWL reduces patient recovery time, minimizes post-operative complications, and eliminates the need for surgical incisions. As more patients and healthcare professionals recognize the benefits of this approach, the demand for lithotripsy devices used in ESWL procedures is expected to rise. ESWL has a proven track record of effectively breaking down stones in the urinary system, and it can be used for a wide range of stone sizes and locations. Its high success rate and minimal risks make it a preferred choice for stone management, which in turn drives the demand for lithotripsy devices.

The growing number of ESWL procedures as a preferred method for treating kidney and urinary tract stones is expected to drive the demand for lithotripsy devices. The combination of non-invasiveness, high efficacy, and patient-friendliness positions ESWL as a pivotal stone management technique, making lithotripsy devices crucial in modern urology practices.

Increasing Burden of Urolithiasis

The increasing burden of urolithiasis, commonly known as kidney stones, is expected to drive a significant increase in the demand for lithotripsy devices. Urolithiasis is a painful condition characterized by the formation of mineral deposits within the urinary tract, often requiring medical intervention for management. The global incidence of urolithiasis is on the rise due to various factors, including dietary habits, lifestyle changes, and increasing rates of obesity. As the number of individuals affected by kidney stones increases, there is a corresponding surge in the need for effective and minimally invasive treatment options like lithotripsy. The increasing burden of urolithiasis, coupled with the patient-centric approach in modern healthcare, is expected to fuel the demand for lithotripsy devices. As kidney stones become a more prevalent health concern, lithotripsy procedures continue to be a pivotal component of urological care, making lithotripsy devices indispensable in the management of urolithiasis.

Key Market Challenges

High Cost and Availability Disparities

Lithotripsy devices and the associated treatments can indeed be quite expensive. The initial capital investment required for purchasing lithotripsy equipment is relatively high, which can be a barrier for healthcare facilities looking to adopt this technology. Additionally, the operation and maintenance costs of lithotripsy devices are significantly higher compared to other medical equipment. Moreover, the need for skilled healthcare professionals and specialized training further adds to the overall cost, making it challenging for resource-constrained healthcare settings to afford and implement lithotripsy devices.

Furthermore, the accessibility and availability of lithotripsy devices can vary, especially in underdeveloped or rural regions. There tends to be a concentration of advanced medical technologies in urban areas, leading to limited access for patients residing in remote locations. This disparity in access and availability may impede the widespread adoption of lithotripsy devices in certain regions, hindering the growth of the lithotripsy devices market.

Considering these factors, it becomes evident that the cost and availability of lithotripsy devices pose significant challenges in healthcare settings. Addressing these barriers and finding ways to make lithotripsy more accessible and affordable could potentially improve patient outcomes and expand the reach of this beneficial technology.

Adverse Effects Associated with Lithotripsy

The demand for lithotripsy devices may face a potential decrease due to the adverse effects associated with some lithotripsy procedures. Despite being non-invasive, lithotripsy procedures can still cause pain and discomfort during and after treatment. Patients often experience discomfort due to the shock waves or the positioning required during the procedure. The perceived discomfort can discourage individuals from choosing lithotripsy as their preferred treatment option.

Lithotripsy may not always completely fragment large or hard stones, necessitating multiple sessions or additional procedures. This can lead to patient frustration, increased costs, and prolonged recovery periods, impacting the overall appeal of lithotripsy. In some cases, lithotripsy may cause damage to surrounding tissues, leading to complications. The risk of injury to the kidney or other nearby structures can be a concern for both patients and healthcare providers, influencing treatment decisions.

Following lithotripsy, smaller stone fragments may migrate within the urinary tract, potentially causing obstruction or discomfort. The need for additional interventions to address these migrated fragments can be viewed as a drawback. Advances in minimally invasive surgical techniques, such as ureteroscopy and percutaneous nephrolithotomy, offer effective alternatives for managing kidney stones. These approaches often yield faster stone clearance and may be perceived as more reliable by patients and healthcare providers.

Key Market Trends

Technological Advancements in Minimally Invasive Surgeries

Technological advancements, particularly in the field of minimally invasive surgeries, are expected to shift demand away from lithotripsy devices. As new, less invasive methods and tools continue to emerge, the necessity for lithotripsy, a procedure traditionally used for the removal of kidney stones, is predicted to decline. Several medical innovations, such as robotic-assisted surgeries and laser-based interventions, offer precise and controlled treatment options, leading to faster recovery, reduced hospital stays, and lesser complications compared to older, more invasive methods. For instance, ureterorenoscopy, which employs a small telescope to remove stones, and percutaneous nephrolithotomy, which uses a small incision to reach and remove kidney stones, are rapidly gaining popularity. These procedures, backed by state-of-the-art technology, provide a patient-friendly alternative to lithotripsy, thereby potentially reducing its demand in the healthcare market. Hence, advancements in minimally invasive surgeries are likely to reshape the landscape of urological treatments, rendering traditional methods such as lithotripsy less prominent.

Focus on Government Policies, Investments, and Innovations

The government is actively prioritizing the research and development of the global lithotripsy devices market by making substantial investments and implementing favorable policies, particularly in developing economies. These efforts are aimed at creating abundant opportunities for the overall growth of the market in the coming years. According to the National Library of Medicine, high-income countries allocate approximately 2-3% of their annual healthcare budget for the treatment of kidney diseases. As the market continues to evolve, it becomes crucial for emerging countries to consider budget planning to support the growth of this market in the foreseeable future. Furthermore, the market is witnessing a surge in product launches such as Extracorporeal Lithotripter, Intracorporeal Lithotripter, and pneumatic lithotripters. The commercialization of these advanced products and technologies in numerous countries is projected to contribute significantly to the expansion of the market, thereby creating ample opportunities for various stakeholders in the future.

Segmental Insights

End User Insights

Based on the type, the extracorporeal shockwave lithotripsy devices segment emerged as the leading market player in 2022. These devices offer a significant advantage by providing a non-surgical treatment option for kidney stones, resulting in reduced hospital stays, cost savings, and faster recovery times. Remarkably, more than 70% of patients experience stone-free outcomes within three months after undergoing treatments with ESWT devices, contributing to the anticipated growth of this segment.

On the other hand, the intracorporeal lithotripsy devices segment is projected to exhibit a steady compound annual growth rate (CAGR) throughout the forecast period. This growth can be attributed to the expansion of urological care services, the establishment of specialized urology clinics and centers, and the increased accessibility of intracorporeal lithotripsy devices for patients. These devices are preferred due to their minimally invasive and efficient approach to breaking down kidney stones, resulting in their growing popularity among patients and healthcare providers.

Application Insights

Based on the application, the kidney stones segment accounted for the largest revenue share in 2022 and is expected to maintain its dominance over the forecast period. With the increasing number of people affected by kidney stones, there is a growing demand for effective and efficient treatment options. Lithotripsy devices, known for their non-invasive or minimally invasive approach, have emerged as a primary treatment mode for kidney stones, making them indispensable in addressing the escalating number of cases. As the number of people affected by kidney stones continues to rise, there will be a larger patient pool seeking lithotripsy procedures in the coming years. This surge in patients seeking treatment is anticipated to drive the higher adoption of lithotripsy devices. Furthermore, the continuous development of advanced lithotripsy devices with improved capabilities, such as better imaging and precise targeting mechanisms, may render them even more suitable for effectively treating kidney stones.

Moving on to the pancreatic stones segment, it is expected to expand at a steady CAGR over the forecast period. As awareness of pancreatic stones and their associated complications grows, there may be an increased demand for effective treatment options. In this context, lithotripsy devices could potentially play a significant role in the treatment of pancreatic stones by offering a non-invasive or minimally invasive approach. The continuous development of advanced lithotripsy devices, equipped with improved imaging and precise targeting mechanisms, could further enhance their suitability for effectively addressing pancreatic stone cases. Overall, the rising prevalence of kidney stones and the increasing awareness of pancreatic stones highlight the need for advanced and efficient treatment options. Lithotripsy devices are poised to play a crucial role in meeting this demand, as they offer non-invasive or minimally invasive approaches and continue to evolve with improved capabilities, making them an integral part of the treatment landscape for both kidney and pancreatic stones.

Regional Insights

In 2022, the North American market dominated the global lithotripsy device market in terms of revenue share. The need for lithotripsy devices in this region is driven by the increasing incidence of kidney stones and the rising elderly population. The National Kidney Foundation estimates that one in ten people may experience kidney stones at some point in their lives, with the risk increasing with age. The North American market is also expected to grow due to advancements in lithotripsy technology, including the introduction of extracorporeal shock wave lithotripsy (ESWL) and ureteroscopy.

The Asia Pacific market is anticipated to experience the fastest revenue growth during the forecast period. This is attributed to the rising prevalence of kidney stones in the region due to an aging population and changing lifestyle behaviors. The availability of affordable lithotripsy devices and a developing healthcare system further contribute to market expansion, particularly in developing nations like China and India. In Europe, the market is expected to expand moderately. The increasing incidence of kidney stones and demand for minimally invasive procedures drive market growth in this region. Major competitors and investments in R&D activities also fuel market expansion. Germany, France, and the UK, with established healthcare infrastructure and significant healthcare spending, are projected to lead the lithotripsy device market in Europe. Overall, the global lithotripsy device market is expanding significantly due to the rising incidence of kidney stones and the increasing demand for minimally invasive procedures. While the Asia Pacific market is expected to grow at the highest rate, the North American market currently dominates the global market. The European market is also anticipated to experience consistent growth due to investments in R&D and the presence of major competitors.

Key Market Players

Boston Scientific Corporation

Olympus Corporation

Dornier MedTech GmbH (Advanced MedTech)

Becton, Dickinson, and Company

Storz Medical AG

Cook Medical LLC

Richard Wolf GmbH

Elmed Medical Systems

Karl Storz SE & Co. KG

Siemens Healthineers AG

Report Scope:

In this report, the Global Lithotripsy Devices Market has been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry trends which have also been detailed below:

Lithotripsy Devices Market, By Type:

• Intracorporeal Lithotripsy
• Extracorporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL)

Lithotripsy Devices Market, By Modality:

• Standalone
• Portable

Lithotripsy Devices Market, By Application:

• Kidney Stone
• Pancreatic Stones
• Ureteral Stones
• Bile Duct Stone

Lithotripsy Devices Market, By End User:

• Hospitals & Clinics
• Ambulatory Surgical Centers
• Others

Lithotripsy Devices Market, By Region:

• North America
• United States
• Canada
• Mexico
• Europe
• France
• United Kingdom
• Italy
• Germany
• Spain
• Asia-Pacific
• China
• India
• Japan
• Australia
• South Korea
• South America
• Brazil
• Argentina
• Colombia
• Middle East & Africa
• South Africa
• Saudi Arabia
• UAE
• Kuwait
• Turkey
• Egypt

Competitive Landscape

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