Veress Needle Market Trends: A Deep Dive into Growth Drivers and Challenges in 2024

The Veress needle market is witnessing notable growth, driven primarily by its extensive use in laparoscopic surgeries and other minimally invasive procedures. As the global demand for minimally invasive surgical methods rises, the Veress needle—an instrument used to create pneumoperitoneum by insufflating the abdominal cavity with gas—has become essential in surgical settings. The market is expected to continue expanding, with forecasts estimating a growth rate of approximately 4.76% annually, reaching a projected valuation of USD 332.47 million by 2028.

Key Market Drivers and Growth Factors

  1. Increasing Popularity of Minimally Invasive Surgeries: Minimally invasive surgeries are in high demand for their shorter recovery times, reduced pain, and lower risk of complications. Veress needles are instrumental in these procedures, especially in laparoscopic surgeries for gynecological, urological, and bariatric applications. The surge in procedures like bariatric surgery, due to the global increase in obesity, further fuels the demand for Veress needles. Hospitals and healthcare facilities across the globe are prioritizing laparoscopic tools to support safer, more effective surgeries.
  2. Technological Advancements: Manufacturers are developing safer, more user-friendly Veress needles with enhanced safety features. For example, recent innovations have introduced features that minimize tissue trauma, a significant concern during blind insertion. These advancements make Veress needles more appealing to healthcare providers focused on precision and safety, making the tool more accessible for surgical trainees, who benefit from practicing on such realistic, advanced instruments.
  3. Adoption of Disposable Veress Needles: As healthcare facilities shift towards disposable medical devices to mitigate the risk of cross-contamination, demand for disposable Veress needles has surged. Disposable versions are particularly favored in environments where sterilization resources are limited, adding convenience and lowering the risk of infection.
  4. Rising Healthcare Expenditures in Emerging Markets: In countries with rapidly developing healthcare infrastructure, such as India and Brazil, there is a growing demand for accessible surgical tools like Veress needles. Governments in these regions are investing in healthcare improvements, making advanced surgical equipment more widely available. This trend contributes to the expanding Veress needle market as more hospitals and clinics in emerging markets integrate minimally invasive procedures.

Challenges in the Veress Needle Market

  1. Competition from Alternative Techniques: Direct trocar insertion (DTI) offers a viable alternative to Veress needle insertion for pneumoperitoneum. Unlike the Veress needle method, DTI involves fewer blind insertion steps, potentially reducing the risk of vascular injuries and shortening operation times. As more surgeons explore DTI, particularly in developed regions, Veress needle manufacturers may face competitive pressure.
  2. Skill Requirements and Training Needs: Correct insertion of the Veress needle is a nuanced skill that requires training. For novice practitioners, improper insertion can lead to complications, such as inadvertent organ injury. While manufacturers offer training-friendly versions of Veress needles, the need for practical experience can still be a limiting factor in the widespread adoption of the device.
  3. Strict Regulatory Requirements: Regulatory bodies across regions mandate stringent requirements for the approval and sale of medical devices like Veress needles. Meeting these regulations can be resource-intensive for manufacturers and impact market entry for new players. However, compliance ensures that Veress needles meet high safety standards, supporting their continued use in surgery.

Major Players and Competitive Landscape

The Veress needle market includes established players such as Medtronic, ConMed, Ethicon (Johnson & Johnson), and Applied Medical. These companies are investing heavily in R&D to develop safer, more effective versions of Veress needles. Smaller, emerging companies are also entering the market, offering competitive pricing and targeting niche markets in emerging economies. This dynamic landscape drives continuous innovation and expands the options available to surgeons worldwide.

Future Prospects

As healthcare providers continue to emphasize patient safety and surgical precision, the Veress needle market is expected to maintain steady growth. Emerging markets are likely to play a significant role, with increasing healthcare investments making Veress needles more widely accessible. Additionally, the adoption of disposable Veress needles is likely to rise as hospitals worldwide prioritize infection control measures. Manufacturers who can balance affordability with innovative safety features are positioned for success, particularly in regions with growing demands for minimally invasive surgical tools.

In conclusion, the Veress needle market’s future looks promising, shaped by technological advancements, rising demand for minimally invasive surgeries, and expanding healthcare facilities in emerging economies. With ongoing improvements and adaptations to meet regulatory standards and safety requirements, the Veress needle will likely remain a staple tool in laparoscopic procedures for years to come.