In the global peripheral vascular market, stent grafts stand as a largely dominant market segment. Yet, despite their prominence, these devices are faced with a unique set of challenges that demand innovative solutions to elevate client outcomes and drive adoption. In this blog, we break-down one of the primary challenges faced by the companies that are present in the stent graft market segment, and the cutting-edge technologies poised to overcome it.
What are Stent Grafts & When are They Used?
Stent grafts are a non-surgical option for patients dealing with abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAAs) or thoracic aortic aneurysms (TAAs). These ingenious devices sport a tubular design, housing a resilient metal skeleton covered in polytetrafluoroethylene. When meticulously positioned, the stent graft imitates a faux lumen, ushering blood through the vessel, away from the perilous aneurysm sac. Conventionally, when dealing with stent graft procedures, the endovascular approach predominantly addresses AAAs, relegating TAAs to alternative treatment strategies.
What Challenge Do These Devices Face?
The most formidable challenge centers around the precise placement of stent grafts. Specifically, it hinges upon the daunting task of sizing these implants to guarantee a flawless seal, avert endoleaks, and facilitate the unimpeded flow of vital blood to the renal arteries.
The intricate anatomy of the aorta, varying from patient to patient, defies the ‘one-size-fits-all’ mantra. Usually, the success of the operation is highly dependent on stent graft selection which undergoes a very careful and detailed imaging process. Consequently, physicians frequently find themselves recommending surgical grafts, either due to anatomical imperatives or the looming specter of an impending rupture. In such high-stake scenarios, stent grafts, sadly, take a backseat.
What is Being Implemented to Overcome this Challenge?
Starting off with specific companies competing within this market, W.L. Gore is leading innovation in the realm of stent graft enhancement. Their recent deployment of stents, featuring the revolutionary Conformable technology, partially pre-expands the stent before deployment, ensuring minimal alteration in shape upon final deployment.
On another front, an array of companies are harnessing the power of artificial intelligence (AI). AI emerges as the guiding star, illuminating the path to precision in deployment positioning and the strategic placement of openings for renal and mesenteric arteries. Essentially, it offers a clearer blueprint, ensuring a snug fit before the deployment even commences.
Furthermore, other trailblazers are working to employ innovative treatment planning and diagnostic software, ushering physicians into the realm of three-dimensional aortic imagery. Typically achieved through the fusion of CT and ultrasound, these methods provide deployment strategy recommendations and sizing guidance.
What Does the Future of the Global Stent Graft Market Look Like?
Though relentless efforts are underway to refine the sizing and deployment of stent grafts, ushering in an era of complication-free procedures, there remains an expanse of uncharted territory brimming with research and innovation. Notably, the exciting prospects of employing three-dimensional printing in the realm of aortic aneurysms shine as a beacon of hope, promising remarkable strides ahead.
For further insights, visit our recently released 2024 Global Stent Graft Market report. This report features a 10-year forecast, complete with critical metrics such as ASPs, unit sales, market trends, sizes, drivers, limiters, and a complete competitive analysis. This report is truly an invaluable compass for those keen on fortifying their product marketing strategy within this market. Click below to request a complimentary summary and unlock the future of stent grafts.
