Artificial kidneys, also known as implantable or wearable kidneys, are medical devices designed to mimic the function of real kidneys for people with end-stage renal disease (ESRD). The increasing prevalence of ESRD across the globe has fueled the demand for new treatment options like artificial kidneys. These devices act as an external dialysis machine by filtering out waste and excess fluid from the blood without the need for conventional dialysis treatments. Some key artificial kidney products include implantable bioartificial kidneys that contain functional kidney cell clusters and membrane-based wearable kidneys that continuously filter blood outside the body through hollow fibers or other membrane technologies.
The global artificial kidney market is estimated to be valued at US$ 7 Bn in 2023 and is expected to exhibit a CAGR of 6.9% over the forecast period 2023 to 2030, as highlighted in a new report published by Coherent Market Insights.
Market Dynamics:
The emergence of new treatment options for end-stage renal disease is expected to be a major driver for the growth of the artificial kidney market during the forecast period. As highlighted earlier, artificial kidneys are being developed as an alternative to conventional dialysis treatments for managing ESRD. This can help overcome limitations of dialysis like transportation difficulties, dependence on infrastructure, and improved quality of life for patients. Further, increasing public-private investments to accelerate clinical trials and approvals of new artificial kidney technologies will also aid the market growth over the coming years. For instance, in 2019, the FDA granted Breakthrough Device Designation to Kidney project’s wearable artificial kidney to help speed up the approval process.
Segment Analysis
The artificial kidney market can be segmented based on product type and end user. Based on product type, the market is dominated by the portable/wearable artificial kidneys sub-segment due to the growing preference for such products which provide more flexibility and mobility to patients. Based on end user, the homecare settings sub-segment is dominating as it enables patients to receive treatment in a familiar environment instead of hospitals or clinics.
PEST Analysis
Political: Regulations supporting home-based dialysis are expected to drive the artificial kidney market growth. Various countries are working towards enhancing accessibility to renal replacement therapies.
Economic: Rising healthcare expenditure and increasing income levels are increasing the demand for advanced renal replacement therapies like artificial kidneys. However, high costs of these products remains a challenge.
Social: Growing prevalence of kidney diseases due to changing lifestyles and increased risk factors is a major driver. Availability of next-generation kidney therapies improves quality of life for patients.
Technological: Developments in areas like biomaterials, 3D bioprinting etc are accelerating product innovation. Partnerships between universities and companies are helping introduce novel product concepts.
Key Takeaways
The Global Artificial Kidney Market Size is expected to witness high growth over the forecast period supported by initiatives to expand access to dialysis and enhance patient outcomes.
Regional Analysis: North America currently dominates due to rapid adoption of advanced renal replacement modalities and supportive regulations around home-based dialysis.
Key players operating in the artificial kidney market are DanDry, Bry-Air, Drymate, DehuTech AB, Aprilaire, Therma-Stor LLC, Santa Fe Products, Surna Inc. Growing public awareness about kidney diseases and partnerships for technology advancement are positioning the market for substantial expansion in the coming years.