The external ventricular drain market is projected to show steady growth during the forecast period.
In neurosurgery, an external ventricular drain (EVD) is used to treat hydrocephalus and reduce excessive intracranial pressure (ICP). There are two main types of external ventricular drains (EVDs): conventional EVD and EVD with flow regulation of which the conventional EVD, which involves inserting a catheter into one of the brain's ventricles, is most commonly used. The major factors driving the market growth are the increasing incidence of neurological disorders, increased accident rates, and head injuries coupled with technological advancement in neurosurgery projects.
Neurological disorders are a group of illnesses that affect the nervous system, which includes the brain, spinal cord, nerves, and muscles. The symptoms of these disorders can vary widely depending on the specific area of the nervous system that is affected. According to the European Commission's Published article on “Brain Research” an enormous health concern is neurological illnesses. Around 165 million people in Europe suffer from a neurological disorder. It is estimated that one in three individuals may experience a neurological or mental disorder at some point in their lives. In addition to neurodegenerative illnesses like Parkinson's and Alzheimer's, brain disorders can also include epilepsy, depression, stroke, migraines, sleep disturbances, traumatic brain injury, pain syndromes, and addiction. With the growing prevalence of neurological disorders, the demand for extra ventricular drains for removing excessive fluid will also increase, thereby propelling the market growth.
Every year, around 1.19 million people die in car accidents, and 20 to 50 million get injured, many of whom end up with disabilities. A traumatic brain injury (TBI) refers to the disruption of the normal function of the brain, which can occur due to a penetrating head injury, a blow, jolt, or knock to the head. These types of injuries are a leading cause of mortality and disability and pose a serious threat to public health across the country. In 2020, there were 21,399 TBI-related emergency department visits, hospitalizations, or deaths in Tennessee. As accident rates increase, more people suffer brain injuries which can result in the need for EVD procedures and associated equipment. EVD is frequently used to treat diseases like hydrocephalus, which can be caused by head trauma. It can lead to a buildup of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and even death.
Hydrocephalus is a medical condition where there is an excess of fluid in the brain, often caused by intracerebral hemorrhage. To treat this condition, doctors use trans frontal external ventricular drainage (EVD) along with OMMAYA sac implantation, which acts as a reservoir for continuous fluid removal or medication delivery, while the EVD permits fluid drainage. Laser guidance is used during surgery to ensure precise device placement, increasing efficiency and reducing the risk of complications. According to the National Library of Medicine, ten patients, with an average age of 58, underwent urgent surgery. All surgeries were completed according to the established requirements.
North America is anticipated to account for a significant share of the external ventricular drain market due to the rise in neurological disorders in regional economies and investment in research and development with respective hydrocephalus. For instance, according to a 2022 study by the Parkinson's Foundation, the annual number of Parkinson's disease diagnoses in America has risen by 50% to approximately 90,000, compared to the previously predicted rate of 60,000. During the study, it is expected that the North American market will experience growth due to the increasing prevalence of neurological disorders in the region. Treatment for hydrocephalus involves the use of external ventricular devices. These devices not only measure intracranial pressure but also aid in treating patients with severe head injuries by draining infected cerebrospinal fluid and reducing elevated intracranial pressure. In 2021, a $14 million grant was awarded to Johns Hopkins Medicine to support a clinical trial for hydrocephalus treatment efficacy by the National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS)
Several potential side effects, including infections, bleeding, catheter malfunctions, and misplacement, are associated with EVDs. These may necessitate additional surgeries, increasing healthcare costs and the risk of patient morbidity.
Producers of EVD systems face increasing competition from emerging minimally invasive and non-invasive solutions for treating Traumatic Brain Injuries and hydrocephalus. To retain their market share and stay relevant, they need to highlight the unique benefits of their EVD systems, such as faster drainage and wider applicability.