Concept

Indian Medical Device and Diagnostics Industry

The demand and growth potential in the medical device segment is phenomenal. India is one of the fastest growing medical device market, which is estimated at around Rs. 5750 crore with a predicted annual double digit growth rate of 23 per cent or more for the coming years. The market size for medical device in India is expected to touch US $1.7 billion by 2010, up from US $1.4 billion presently.

Use of plastics in medical applications

The use of plastics in medical applications is expected to continue its steady growth as new polymers edge out metals, ceramics, and other traditional materials. Innovative materials are replacing the conventional ones. Medical devices are becoming smaller and lighter but have performance advantages over much larger and more expensive equipment.

For the foreseeable future, countries such as China and India will have greatest growth potential due to their large populations and developing healthcare system.

There is a bewildering array of medical plastics available for manufacturers today, and the choices are still expanding as materials developers find innovative ways to deliver greater strength, flexibility, resistance to sterilization or bodily materials, or just simple aesthetic appeal.

The following facts indicate the recent trends in the field of Plastics used for medical applications.

• Medical devices are becoming lighter, more portable and more user-friendly, with more functionality.

• A steady stream of new and innovative medical devices has been made possible by advanced polymer research.

• Advanced medical polymers are now capable of biological processes and can become a functional part of living organisms.

• BCC forecasts a “Slight shift” from commodity thermoplastics to engineering resins, styrencis, thermosets, and TPEs, noting that the fastest growing market will be for TPEs. Major non-disposable markets include testing / diagnostic equipment, surgical instrument and related equipment, prostheses / implants, and dental / ophthalmics. Disposable products include syringes, labware, tubing, blood bags, utensils, gloves, trays, and catheters.

• Changing sterilization technologies.

• Effects of AIDS and other infectious diseases.

• Changing FDA regulations.

• The trend toward “defensive medicine” resulting from increased liability lawsuits.

• Aging of population.

• New technologies such as diagnostic imaging, laser surgery.

• Polymers with improved biocompatible properties.

• The continued drive toward industry cost containment.

• Recent emphasis on PVC alternatives.