Global External and Implantable Cardiac Defibrillators Market - 2025-2033

The global external and implantable cardiac defibrillators market reached US$ 6.58 billion in 2024 and is expected to reach US$ 12.16 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 7.1% during the forecast period 2025-2033.

External and implantable cardiac defibrillators are medical devices designed to treat life-threatening cardiac arrhythmias, such as ventricular fibrillation (VF) and ventricular tachycardia (VT), by delivering a controlled electric shock to restore normal heart rhythm. Implantable cardiac defibrillators (ICDs) are surgically implanted inside the body and are used for continuous monitoring and treatment of abnormal heart rhythms. They are typically prescribed to patients at high risk of sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) due to conditions like congenital heart defects, cardiomyopathy, heart failure, or a history of life-threatening arrhythmias.

External defibrillators are portable, non-invasive devices used in emergency situations to deliver an electric shock to the heart through electrode pads placed on the chest. These devices are commonly used by first responders, emergency medical teams, and public access locations (like airports, malls, and sports arenas) to restore normal heart rhythm during sudden cardiac arrest. Automated external defibrillators (AEDs) are the most commonly used external defibrillators. They are designed to be user-friendly, with built-in algorithms to analyze the heart's rhythm and automatically deliver shocks if necessary. AEDs can be used by bystanders with minimal training.

The market demand for external and implantable cardiac defibrillators is driven by a combination of medical needs, technological advancements and rising awareness about cardiovascular health. The global increase in cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) including heart attacks, arrhythmias, heart failure and sudden cardiac arrest has created a growing need for both external and implantable defibrillators. For instance, according to the National Institute of Health, cardiovascular diseases (CVDs) are the leading cause of deaths globally. Of the 20.5 million CVD-related deaths in 2021, approximately 80% occurred in low- and middle-income countries.

Market Dynamics: Drivers & Restraints

Technological Advancements in Defibrillator Devices

The rising technological advancements in defibrillator devices are significantly driving the growth of the external and implantable cardiac defibrillators market and are expected to drive the market over the forecast period. Wearable cardioverter defibrillators, such as the LifeVest by Zoll Medical and Jewel Wearable Patch Cardioverter Defibrillator by Element Science, offer a non-invasive solution for patients who are at high risk for sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) but are not yet candidates for an ICD. These wearable devices monitor heart rhythms and automatically deliver shocks when necessary.

For instance, in July 2024, Element Science announced that its Jewel Wearable Patch Cardioverter Defibrillator (Jewel) received the prestigious Red Dot Design Award. This award signals international recognition of Jewel's unique design, focusing on patient comfort while delivering continuous protection from temporary periods of elevated Sudden Cardiac Arrest (SCA) risk, which typically occurs in the weeks to months after suffering a cardiac event, such as a heart attack.

Improved battery technology in both implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) and automated external defibrillators (AEDs) has significantly extended the life of these devices, reducing the need for frequent replacements. In the case of ICDs, the battery life has been extended to 7-10 years, which improves the long-term viability of the device and reduces healthcare costs.

For instance, the extended battery life in devices like the Medtronic Evera MRI ICD (which lasts for up to 10 years) has contributed to market growth by reducing the overall cost of ownership for patients and healthcare providers. It also ensures that devices are available for longer periods, thus improving patient care.

Complications and Safety Concerns

Despite their critical role in saving lives, complications and safety concerns related to both external and implantable cardiac defibrillators have been significant challenges, slowing the growth of the market. These issues impact patient outcomes, clinical adoption and cost-effectiveness, contributing to hesitation in both prescribing and using these devices.

One of the most significant concerns with implantable cardioverter defibrillators (ICDs) is the possibility of unnecessary shocks, which can cause physical and psychological harm to patients. False or inappropriate shocks can lead to patient anxiety, depression and a diminished quality of life. For instance, according to a study in the Journal of the American College of Cardiology, inappropriate shocks occur in about 13% of ICD patients, and these shocks can lead to increased hospitalizations, psychological distress, and potential harm to the patient.

In implantable defibrillators, malfunctions related to the device's leads (wires) or battery can result in device failure, necessitating surgery for replacement or repair. Complications like lead displacement, infection, or hardware failure may require costly interventions. For instance, according to an announcement from the US Food and Drug Administration, Medtronic is recalling nearly 350,000 implantable cardiac devices due to continued problems with the delivery of high-voltage energy. The recall is categorized as a Class I, the most serious type.

Segment Analysis

The global external and implantable cardiac defibrillators market is segmented based on product type, imaging modality, application, procedure type, end-user and region.

Product Type:

The external defibrillators segment is expected to dominate the external and implantable cardiac defibrillators market share

The increasing adoption of automated external defibrillators (AEDs) in public spaces like airports, shopping malls, schools, stadiums, homes and train stations has played a pivotal role in driving the demand for external defibrillators. Public access to AEDs is essential in emergencies, providing life-saving interventions before emergency medical teams arrive. For instance, according to the National Institute of Health (NIH), sudden cardiac death from ventricular arrhythmia kills about 350,000 people annually in the United States. About 70% of sudden cardiac deaths occur at home, where an AED is usually unavailable. This further accelerates the demand for AEDs.

The introduction of next-generation AEDs has revolutionized the way defibrillators are used in emergencies. Newer models come with features like real-time data transmission, cloud connectivity, AI-powered algorithms, and improved battery life. The next-generation AEDs are more efficient and reliable, which is a key factor contributing to their dominance in the market.

For instance, in March 2024, Stryker launched a next-generation LIFEPAK CR2 automated external defibrillator (AED) for cardiac care. The LIFEPAK CR2 is a revolutionary defibrillator designed to empower rescuers to provide high-quality CPR and deliver instant shock during sudden cardiac arrest (SCA) emergencies. This innovative device incorporates QUIK-STEP electrodes which peel directly off the base for faster placement on the patient's chest and a Shock Advisory System which is an ECG analysis system that advises whether a shock is appropriate.

Geographical Analysis

North America is expected to hold a significant position in the external and implantable cardiac defibrillators market share

Cardiovascular diseases, including sudden cardiac arrest, arrhythmias and heart failure, are among the leading causes of death in North America particularly in the United States, contributing to the growing need for life-saving cardiac devices such as defibrillators. For instance, according to the Cardiac Arrest Foundation, there are more than 356,000 out-of-hospital cardiac arrests annually in the United States.

North America has extensive public education and CPR/AED training programs, increasing the number of trained individuals who are capable of using AEDs in emergency situations. This has contributed to a higher survival rate and widespread acceptance of defibrillators in both healthcare settings and public spaces.

For instance, in all, over 20 million people worldwide every year learn CPR through the American Heart Association (AHA). In the U.S., around 90% of healthcare providers have received AHA training. which has positively influenced the market by increasing the number of laypersons who can assist in life-saving procedures.

Additionally, in September 2024, the Smart Heart Sports Coalition launched the "AEDs for Youth" program, offering automated external defibrillators (AEDs) to schools and youth sports organizations at substantial discounts. In collaboration with leading AED companies Avive Solutions and Coro Medical, the program makes AEDs more accessible as students, teachers and athletes begin the new school year.

Asia-Pacific is growing at the fastest pace in the external and implantable cardiac defibrillators market

The Asia Pacific region has seen a significant increase in the prevalence of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs), which is a major driver for the demand for defibrillators. Changing lifestyles, rising levels of obesity, poor diet habits, increased smoking and sedentary behavior have contributed to the growing burden of heart diseases.

For instance, according to the World Health Organization (WHO), nearly 80% of CVD deaths occur in low- and middle-income countries in the APAC region. As per the Indian Heart Association, the annual number of deaths from CVD in India has risen from 2.26 million (1990) to 4.77 million (2020), leading to an urgent need for devices like ICDs and AEDs.

Many countries in the APAC region, particularly China, India, Japan and South Korea, have been rapidly improving their healthcare infrastructure. Governments and other private institutions have been raising awareness about the importance of defibrillators, leading to greater accessibility to advanced medical devices like implantable defibrillators (ICDs) and external defibrillators (AEDs).

For instance, in February 2024, the Udgam Group of Schools in Gujarat installed an Automated External Defibrillator (AED) in the premises of Udgam School for Children, Zebar School for Children, Satellite School for Children & Bodakdev School for Children. The initiative is part of a broader campaign to promote the usage of this life-saving technology in public spaces, particularly schools and colleges, with Udgam Group of Schools leading the way. These programs, often promoted by health organizations, government agencies, and NGOs, have significantly boosted AED usage in public places and emergencies.

Competitive Landscape

The major global players in the external and implantable cardiac defibrillators market include Koninklijke Philips N.V., Nihon Kohden Corporation, Medtronic plc, Boston Scientific Corporation, Stryker Corporation, ZOLL Medical Corporation, Abbott Laboratories, MicroPort Medical Products Ltd., LivaNova PLC, Mindray Medical India Pvt. Ltd. and among others.

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The global external and implantable cardiac defibrillators market report delivers a detailed analysis with 62 key tables, more than 51 visually impactful figures, and 171 pages of expert insights, providing a complete view of the market landscape.

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