Medical Device Link.

Originally Published MX January/February 2005

MARKET ANALYSIS

Few sectors of the healthcare marketplace are being influenced by a confluence of dynamics such as those currently driving the spine-implant market. The leading factor in spinal technology innovation is that it is driven by surgeons who are seeking better answers to their patients' needs. This constant search for better solutions is expanding the number of patients that spine surgeons are able to treat.

Meanwhile, the Internet explosion is providing patients with better information about available technologies than ever before, and patients are demanding access to them. The number of patients is growing at a much faster rate than the overall population because of several factors.

Demographics. The prevalence of degenerative disk disease increases with age, and the world's population is aging—especially in developed nations.

Lifestyles. Work and home environments in developed nations have changed dramatically over the past 15 years, becoming much more sedentary. Accordingly, related negative health factors, such as obesity, are increasingly common.

Science and Innovation. Innovations and improvements in biomaterials and the constant refinement of knowledge about spinal biomechanics are making new technologies possible. In turn, such advances are expanding the range of conditions that surgeons are capable of treating.

Regulatory Environment. The duration and cost of studies required to meet FDA regulations has traditionally acted as a technology bottleneck to improving patient outcomes. These remain significant factors influencing the size of the spine market and the pace of market approval for new products or new indications for use. However, FDA has responded to the medical community and is accelerating its approval processes.

Copyright ©2005 MX