The medical device industry had a strong and successful 2024, marked by notable innovations, including the rise of pulsed field ablation (PFA) technology, which has been rapidly gaining attention for its ability to treat atrial fibrillation. Despite facing international challenges, including economic concerns in China and uncertainty surrounding the incoming Trump administration, the overall outlook for the industry remains positive.
As the sector enters 2025, several trends are emerging that will shape the year. The competition in robotic surgery is intensifying, with Intuitive Surgical's da Vinci 5 continuing to dominate the soft tissue surgical space despite growing competition. The field of surgical robots is expanding rapidly, with over 50 companies now competing. While it may take time for new competitors to catch up to Intuitive's market share there is significan potential in this market and analysts believe that “everything that can possibly be done with robotics will be done”.
Mergers and acquisitions (M&A) are also expected to remain a key theme, with companies like Stryker and Boston Scientific leading the way in dealmaking. Experts predict that 2025 could see continued M&A activity, driven by lower interest rates and favorable valuations. Additionally, the impact of political uncertainty and potential trade wars, particularly with China, will be closely monitored.
In the cardiovascular space, PFA technology is poised for rapid growth, with companies like Medtronic and Boston Scientific leading the charge. Additionally, renal denervation, a treatment for hypertension, is gaining traction with both Medtronic and Recor Medical receiving FDA approval.
2025 will be a pivotal year for the medtech industry and Intertek is proud to lead the way with our innovative solutions!
Check out our Medical Resources page to learn more: https://www.intertek.com/medical/resources/