Freedonia Market Research Analyzes Orthopedic Implant Industry

US demand for orthopedic implants will increase 8.9 percent annually to nearly $22 billion in 2012, with the four major product segments -- reconstructive joint replacements, spinal implants, orthobiologics and trauma implants -- all providing strong growth opportunities.  The market for reconstructive joint replacements, which is forecast to reach $9 billion in 2012, will gain upward momentum from an aging population and the widespread prevalence of physically active lifestyles.  These and other trends, including market share and company profiles, are presented in Orthopedic Implants, a new study from The Freedonia Group, Inc., a Cleveland-based industry research firm. 

Knees and hips, which are highly vulnerable to degeneration caused by arthritic conditions, will continue to account for the vast majority of reconstructive joint replacements.  Continuing advances in materials and design will improve the safety and performance features of knee and hip implants and encourage their expanding use in the treatment of severe arthritis.   Among other reconstructive joint replacements, shoulder systems will post the strongest demand and realize the best growth opportunities based on advantages over alternative therapies in the reduction of pain and restoration of mobility.

Spinal implants will show strong growth due to advances in product technologies and related surgical techniques, coupled with an increasing prevalence of chronic back conditions.  Fixation devices and artificial discs used in spinal fusion and motion preservation surgeries, especially procedures for the repair of vertebrae and replacement of degenerative discs, will account for the largest share of the market and best growth opportunities. 

Orthobiologics will realize strong growth as breakthroughs in biotechnology and nanotechnology lead to the commercialization of new and improved products.  Growth factors, grafts and synthetic materials for the replacement and fortification of diseased and damaged bone are among the orthobiologics expected to fare especially well in the marketplace.  Ongoing formulation improvements will keep bone cement a leading material used in the placement of reconstructive joint replacements and spinal implants. 

The Freedonia Group is a leading international business research company, founded in 1985, that publishes more than 100 industry research studies annually. This industry analysis provides an unbiased outlook and a reliable assessment of an industry and includes product segmentation and demand forecasts, industry trends, demand history, threats and opportunities, competitive strategies, market share determinations and company profiles.