Based on the latest market study by iData Research, there are close to 1.5 million hernia repair surgeries performed every year in the United States. A hernia is a condition in which part of the intestine bulges through a weak area in the abdominal muscles, so hernia repair involves repositioning this intestine back into the body cavity. The surgery is currently the only treatment for a hernia, and repairs can be done with open repair or laparoscopic techniques.
The overall U.S. hernia repair market is expected to grow by approximately 3% year after year until 2030. However, this growth trajectory might be affected by a variety of factors.
Factors Affecting the Growth of Hernia Repair Market
Rapidly Changing Demographics
The most prominent market driver for hernia repair surgeries is the demographic changes in the U.S. The number of obese and elderly people is expected to increase relative to the overall U.S. population growth. By 2030, 48.9% of adults in the United States will be obese and 24.2% will be severely obese. Furthermore, the percentage of the U.S. population that is older than 65 will rise from 15.2% in 2016 to 23.4% in 2034, reaching almost 80 million.
The rising demand for hernia repair is intimately linked to the growing elderly and obese populations, as individuals from these groups are at a high risk of developing a hernia during surgical procedures. The correction of a hernia can be performed using an open or laparoscopic technique.
Poor Reputation of Synthetic Meshes
Synthetics have traditionally been the top choice for hernia repair. However, past FDA public warnings and announcements of complications associated with the use of these hernia meshes have slightly affected surgeons’ opinions on their use.
Current evidence suggests that certain synthetic hernia meshes have been related to specific complications following hernia repair. These complications include chronic foreign body response, intestinal fistula, erosion of the mesh into viscera, mesh shrinkage or migration, and a higher risk of infection.
Surgeons still predominantly use synthetics for hernia surgeries, but their attention has been shifting towards alternative devices. Biological products derived from human (allografts) or non-human (xenografts) sources have become popular choices for surgeons as favorable clinical data expands supporting their use in hernia repair.
It is likely that the number of hernia repair surgeries performed will not be negatively affected by this trend. However, as the usage of synthetic meshes decreases, and physicians seek out alternative biological solutions, the level of innovation within the US hernia repair market is expected to go up, positively impacting the overall market.
Robotic-Assisted Surgeries
Robotic-assisted hernia repair (RAHR) procedures represents an emerging technique that has gradually gained traction among surgeons. This advanced approach distinguishes itself from traditional laparoscopic surgery by offering three-dimensional imaging of the abdomen, which enhances depth perception and surgical precision. The surgeon operates from a console, manipulating surgical instruments with heightened control and dexterity. Compared to the two-dimensional imaging of laparoscopy, robotic assistance allows for more complex and delicate procedures, potentially resulting in less trauma and postoperative pain for patients. Additionally, recent studies indicate a reduced length of stay (LOS) and fewer complications with robotic-assisted hernia repair (RAHR), particularly in complex ventral hernia cases requiring a transversus abdominis release (TAR).
Conclusion
According to the recent analysis of the Soft Tissue Repair market, there are many different factors that are influencing the U.S. hernia repair market.
The changing demographic population, increasing number of procedures, and the introduction of robotic-assisted surgery to minimize trauma and postoperative pain are all working to increase the overall market size and strength of the U.S. hernia repair market.
For Further Information
This recent development presents some implications for the future of the hernia repair market. iData Research’s Soft Tissue Repair Market Report | United States | 2024-2030| MedSuite report contains a detailed market analysis, including procedural volumes and a competitive overview. Feel free to request your complimentary research summary!
