Global Pressure Ulcers Market - 2024 - 2031

Report Overview

The Global Pressure Ulcers Market reached US$ 5.63 billion in 2023 and is expected to reach US$ 8.78 billion by 2031 growing with a CAGR of 5.8% during the forecast period 2024-2031.

Pressure ulcers, commonly referred to as bed sores, pressure sores, or decubitus ulcers, are localized damage to the skin and underlying tissues that arise from sustained pressure, often accompanied by shear forces. These ulcers usually form over bony areas, such as the sacrum, heels, hips, and coccyx, and can appear as either intact skin or open wounds. This condition is especially common among individuals who are immobile or have diminished sensation, making it a major concern in healthcare environments.

Pressure dressings are specialized products designed for wound care that apply controlled pressure to the wound area. They are mainly used to prevent and treat pressure injuries, which develop when prolonged pressure disrupts blood supply to the skin and underlying tissues. These dressings maintain a moist environment conducive to healing, absorb excess wound fluid, and create a protective barrier against infection. By doing this, they promote the healing process and minimize the risk of further tissue damage caused by pressure injuries.

Market Dynamics: Drivers

Increasing incidence of chronic wounds and technological advancements

Multiple factors drive the demand for the global pressure ulcers market. One of the key factors is the increasing incidence of chronic wounds and technological advancements. The incidence of chronic wounds, such as pressure ulcers, diabetic foot ulcers, and venous leg ulcers, is increasing worldwide due to a combination of interrelated factors. These wounds are characterized by their prolonged healing time, often lasting for several weeks or months, and pose a significant burden on public health. As per ScienceDirect publication in May 2023, the prevalence of pressure ulcers ranges from 5.2% to 12.3%.

Advancements in wound care technologies have proven the introduction of sophisticated pressure dressings that provide enhanced absorption, comfort, and healing capabilities. Products like silicone foam dressings and hydrocolloid dressings are becoming increasingly popular due to their effectiveness in managing exudate and reducing pain during dressing changes.

Moreover, ongoing research & development in this area continue to improve the quality and effectiveness of pressure dressings, innovative launches such as AI in wound care management key players initiatives driving the market growth. For instance, in August 2024, a new research initiative was launched at Doncaster and Bassetlaw Teaching Hospitals (DBTH) to explore how artificial intelligence (AI) can enhance the prevention and management of pressure ulcers. This AI-driven system will analyze patient data including factors such as age, height, weight, risk factors for pressure ulcers, and the ulcer's stage to create personalized care plans tailored to expected outcomes. The system aims to recommend treatment plans that are not only effective and efficient but also environmentally sustainable and cost-effective.

Similarly, in November 2023, Medstrom launched a new resource in conjunction with Stop Pressure Ulcer Day, aimed at improving the identification of pressure ulcers. This initiative coincides with the annual event hosted by the European Pressure Ulcer Advisory Panel (EPUAP), which focuses on raising awareness about pressure ulcers and enhancing care practices. The newly introduced resource is a pocket-sized tool designed to help healthcare professionals assess patients' baseline skin tones, enabling them to detect any changes that may indicate the development of pressure ulcers.

Restraints

Factors such as the high cost of advanced dressings, regulatory challenges, availability of various substitute products, and stringent regulations for wound dressings are expected to hamper the market.

Market Segment Analysis

The global pressure ulcers market is segmented based on ulcer type, product type, end-user, and region.

The foam dressings segment accounted for approximately 65.8% of the global pressure ulcers market share

The foam dressings segment is expected to hold the largest market share over the forecast period. Foam dressings have been demonstrated to be an effective treatment option for pressure ulcers. A study published in the NCBI in January 2024 found that using foam dressings as an intervention is likely to be a cost-effective strategy compared to standard prevention methods alone for treating hospital-acquired pressure ulcers.

Foam dressings are made of semi-permeable polyurethane material and are widely used in pressure ulcer treatment. These dressings can be adhesive or non-adhesive, depending on the specific needs of the wound. Foam dressings are considered an effective tool for maintaining a moist wound environment, which is crucial for optimal healing. They are particularly useful in preventing dressing-related trauma, managing exuding wounds, and reducing discomfort and pain.

Technological advancements in foam dressings have significantly enhanced their effectiveness in treating pressure ulcers. A study published in Mathematical Problems in Engineering in April 2021 indicated that foam dressings can reduce the prevalence of pressure sores and the likelihood of developing pressure ulcers by as much as 30%. Furthermore, when compared to untreated pressure sores, the integration of Internet of Things (IoT) technology can improve the effectiveness of foam dressings and decrease the risk of pressure sores by approximately 7%.

Moreover, key players in the industry have ongoing research studies in foam dressing and innovative launches that would propel this market growth. For instance, in April 2024, Smith+Nephew released new evidence highlighting the effectiveness of its ALLEVYN LIFE foam dressing in preventing pressure injuries. This research, conducted by Professor Amit Gefen and his team, was published in the International Wound Journal.

The study identified a unique mechanism of action within the ALLEVYN LIFE foam dressing that aids in pressure injury prevention (PIP). The dressing's independent and non-bonded internal layers create a sliding effect, known as layer-on-layer sliding, which allows for the dissipation of mechanical energy that would otherwise be transferred to the patient's skin in a traditional bonded dressing.

Also, in January 2024, Coloplast launched the Biatain Silicone Fit, a new silicone foam dressing aimed at enhancing pressure injury prevention and wound management in the United States. This product is part of Coloplast's strategy to strengthen its presence in the advanced wound care market.

The Biatain Silicone Fit is designed to meet the needs of both healthcare professionals and patients by providing a dressing that is easy to use and comfortable. It features 3DFit Technology, which allows the dressing to conform to the body's contours and stay securely in place during patient movement. This adaptability is crucial for effective pressure injury prevention, as it minimizes the risk of skin damage and enhances patient comfort.

Market Geographical Analysis

North America accounted for approximately 44.7% of the global pressure ulcers market share

North America region is expected to hold the largest market share over the forecast period owing to the increasing prevalence of chronic diseases, such as diabetes and cardiovascular conditions, significantly driving the demand for pressure dressings. Chronic illnesses often lead to complications like pressure ulcers, especially in patients with limited mobility. It is estimated that 15% of individuals with diabetes will develop foot ulcers at some point in their lives. This growing population of patients underscores the need for effective wound care solutions, including pressure dressings.

Furthermore, the growing number of traumatic injuries, advancements in wound care technologies, rising healthcare expenditure, and regulatory support and product approvals are driving this market growth in the region. Moreover, a major number of key players' presence, well-advanced healthcare infrastructure, and advanced product launches driving this market growth.

For instance, in March 2024, Integra LifeSciences announced the commercial availability of MicroMatrix Flex in the United States. MicroMatrix Flex is a dual-syringe system designed to enable the convenient mixing and precise delivery of MicroMatrix paste, a wound management product. This innovative system provides healthcare professionals with a convenient way to access hard-to-reach areas of wounds and helps create an even wound surface in challenging cases. MicroMatrix Flex is designed for the management of various types of wounds, including partial & full-thickness wounds, pressure ulcers, venous ulcers, and diabetic ulcers.

Similarly, in April 2024, Smith+Nephew launched its RENASYS EDGE Negative Pressure Wound Therapy (NPWT) System in the United States, aimed at enhancing home-based care for patients with chronic wounds, such as ulcers. This innovative system is designed to be lightweight, compact, and discreet, allowing patients to carry or wear it easily without drawing attention to their condition. It operates quietly, ensuring that patients can go about their daily activities without disruption.

Market Segmentation

By Ulcer Type

Stage-1

Stage-2

Stage-3

Stage-4

By Product Type

Wound Care Dressings

Film Dressings

Foam Dressings

Hydrogel Dressings

Collagen Dressings

Others

Active Wound Care Therapies

Skin Substitutes

Growth Factors

Wound Care Devices

Negative Pressure Wound Therapy

Hyperbaric Oxygen Equipment

Pressure Relieving Devices

Others

By End-User

Hospitals & Specialty Clinics

Homecare Settings

Ambulatory Surgical Centers

By Region

North America

U.S.

Canada

Mexico

Europe

Germany

U.K.

France

Spain

Italy

Rest of Europe

South America

Brazil

Argentina

The rest of South America

Asia-Pacific

China

India

Japan

South Korea

Rest of Asia-Pacific

Middle East and Africa

Market Competitive Landscape

The major global players in the pressure ulcers market include B. Braun SE, Smith+Nephew, 3M, Molnlycke Health Care AB., Integra LifeSciences Corporation., Cardinal Health., Baxter, Medline Industries, LP., Convatec Group PLC, and Coloplast Corp among others.

Key Developments

In November 2023, Kepler Vision Technologies introduced a new feature to its Night Nurse system that monitors a patient's lying position to determine when they need to be repositioned, thereby reducing the risk of pressure ulcers. This innovative feature continuously tracks patients and alerts care staff if someone remains in the same position for too long.

In July 2023, JeNaCell, a subsidiary of Evonik, introduced the epicite balance wound dressing to the German market. This new product is specifically designed and optimized for treating chronic wounds with low to moderate exudate levels. It is particularly suitable for managing conditions such as venous leg ulcers, arterial leg ulcers, diabetic foot ulcers, pressure ulcers, and soft tissue lesions.

Why Purchase the Report?

To visualize the global pressure ulcers market segmentation based on ulcer type, product type, end-user, and region and understand key commercial assets and players.

Identify commercial opportunities by analyzing trends and co-development.

Excel data sheet with numerous data points on the pressure ulcers market in all segments.

PDF report consists of a comprehensive analysis after exhaustive qualitative interviews and an in-depth study.

Product mapping is available in Excel consisting of key products of all the major players.

The global pressure ulcers market report would provide approximately 62 tables, 53 figures, and 183 pages.

Target Audience 2024

Manufacturers/ Buyers

Industry Investors/Investment Bankers

Research Professionals

Emerging Companies