Minimally invasive technology to drive spinal surgery market growth in US

Technological advancements from both major industry leaders and innovative smaller companies are changing the landscape of spinal surgery in the US. The demand for spinal procedures continues to grow, driven by an ageing population and increasing rates of spinal conditions. The market is seeing the development of advanced surgical systems and minimally invasive techniques, which will lead to growth for the US market, says GlobalData, 

According to GlobalData forecasts, the US spinal surgery market is set to register a modest compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of approximately 2 per cent between 2018 and 2033, with minimally invasive spinal devices anticipated to see a strong 5 per cent CAGR.

In August this year, Johnson & Johnson’s DePuy Synthes introduced a dual-use robotics and standalone navigation platform in the US for use with its Velys robot in spine surgeries. The system is designed for planning and performing spinal fusion procedures, specifically involving cervical, thoracolumbar, and sacroiliac spine surgeries. The aim of the technology is to provide surgeons with flexibility in their approach and planning. The active robotics component offers surgical guidance customized to the surgeon’s preferences.

In July, eCential Robotics received 501(k) clearance for its spine navigation and robotic assistance device, which was developed in collaboration with DePuy Synthes.

Thomas Fleming, Medical Analyst at GlobalData, comments, “Medtronic, a dominant force in the spinal surgery market, continues to demonstrate strong growth driven by innovation. Earlier this year, the company announced the launch of the UNiD ePRO service in the US. This service integrates with existing Electronic Medical Records (EMR), with the aim of simplifying the collection of patient-reported outcomes. The service’s goal is to increase the standard of care by enhancing recovery.”

In addition to the major players in the market, there are a diverse set of companies showing promise with new technology. In August 2024, Spineology, which focuses on minimally invasive spinal surgeries, secured $25 million in Series AA financing to aid in the deployment of its OptiMesh technology across the US. The OptiMesh implant is placed through a small lumbar interbody fusion tubular retractor and expands to be endplate-conforming. Currently, 400,000 lumbar interbody fusion operations are done annually across the US.

Fleming concludes, “Looking ahead, the US spinal surgery market is expected to continue growing, propelled by an ageing population and increasing rates of degenerative disc diseases, spinal stenosis, and other spinal conditions. The demand for innovative, less-invasive surgical solutions will remain a key driver of market expansion in the coming years.”