The Global Glaucoma Drainage Devices Market is estimated to be valued at USD 640.5 million in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 1,184.3 million by 2031, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 11.9% from 2024 to 2031. Glaucoma drainage devices help reduce intraocular pressure by diverting aqueous humor from the anterior chamber of the eye to the conjunctival space or episcleral vessels, thus treating conditions such as refractory glaucoma.

The market is expected to witness significant growth during the forecast period due to the rising geriatric population globally which are more prone to developing glaucoma. Additionally, technological advancements in glaucoma drainage devices along with increasing awareness regarding early glaucoma screening and treatment options available are some key factors driving the growth of this market.

Market Driver - Rising Global Prevalence of Glaucoma Encourages Market Growth.

Glaucoma is one of the leading causes of blindness across the world. As per estimates by glaucoma research organizations, over 100 million people are affected by glaucoma globally and this number is projected to increase substantially in the coming years mainly due to rapid growth of aging population. Older age is one of the primary risk factors for glaucoma as chances of developing the disease increases significantly after the age of 60 years. With improvements in healthcare and life expectancy, the worldwide population aged over 60 years is growing at an unprecedented rate and this demographic transition is likely to significantly drive up the number of glaucoma cases globally.

Moreover, increasing focus of vision related non-profit organizations and eye care programs in underdeveloped areas is also making glaucoma management more accessible to general population. As more people get screened and treated for glaucoma, awareness about glaucoma drainage devices is anticipated to rise substantially.

Even countries with well-established healthcare systems have witnessed surge in glaucoma burden year after year. For example, organizations in United States have estimated that over three million American adults currently have glaucoma and this figure is projected to double by 2050. Rapid expansion of geriatric population base along with growing health consciousness is driving higher rate of glaucoma screening in USA which in turn is leading to identification of more number of existing glaucoma cases. Similar patterns are observed across major markets of Europe and Japan as well. As more patients are detected and treated for glaucoma, the glaucoma drainage devices market is expected to grow in direct correlation with rising disease prevalence worldwide.

Market Driver- Increasing prevalence of lifestyle disorders like diabetes and hypertension

Diabetes and high blood pressure are highly prevalent metabolic disorders nowadays mainly due to sedentary lifestyles and unhealthy dietary patterns common in modern urban societies. Many studies have proved these lifestyle conditions significantly increase the risk of developing glaucoma as well. Diabetes is known to cause nerve damage in eyes leading to vision problems and high blood pressure puts additional strain on eyes that may damage the optic nerve over time.

Currently, worldwide prevalence of diabetes and hypertension has reached epidemic proportions affecting millions of individuals across all age groups. As per latest international surveys, over 500 million adults globally have diabetes and this figure is projected to rise over 600 million in next few years. Similarly, nationwide surveys indicate nearly 1.3 billion people suffer from hypertension worldwide. Alarmed by spreading of non-communicable diseases, health organizations are aggressively working to create awareness and manage these lifestyle conditions more effectively. As a result of intensive screening and treatment programs, many previously undiagnosed cases are being identified now.

Market Challenge - Complications Associated with the Devices Limits the Market Growth.

One of the key challenges faced by the glaucoma drainage devices market is the complications associated with the implantation of these devices. Glaucoma drainage devices are implanted surgically, often through a multi-step procedure that involves making an incision in the eye and placing a silicone tube to drain the aqueous humor from the anterior chamber to a drainage site under the conjunctiva or episclera. Such invasive procedures carry risks of complications. Some common complications associated with glaucoma drainage devices include hypotony (abnormally low intraocular pressure) in the early post-operative period, tube and plate exposure and erosions, infection, bleeding, malpositioning of the tube, and failure of aqueous flow leading to inadequate pressure control. The occurrence of such complications can negatively impact the treatment outcomes and success rates. They may also lead to additional surgeries and treatment costs. Managing and reducing the risk of device-related complications remains a key challenge for manufacturers and surgeons.

Market Opportunity: Growing Geriatric Population and Demand for Minimally Invasive Devices

The growing geriatric population globally is driving the demand for effective glaucoma treatment options. As per estimates, the number of people aged 65 years and above is expected to reach over 1.5 billion worldwide by 2050. Since glaucoma is more prevalent in older age groups, an aging population directly translates to a larger pool of potential patients. At the same time, there is a growing preference among ophthalmologists and patients for minimally invasive glaucoma surgeries and devices as they offer quicker recovery and better safety profiles over traditional invasive surgeries. Glaucoma drainage devices that are implanted using minimally invasive techniques through smaller incisions promise advantages like reduced trauma, less postoperative pain and faster healing. The demand for such minimally invasive glaucoma drainage devices from both surgeons and patients presents a major market opportunity for manufacturers. Companies that are able to develop innovative new devices and technologies enabling minimally invasive implantation techniques can gain higher market share.

New Product Launches: New product launches with innovative features have helped players gain an edge over competitors and capture additional market share. For instance, in 2016, Glaukos Corporation launched its iStent inject which offers minimally invasive glaucoma surgery. The iStent inject allows placement of multiple stents during a single procedure which has advantages over existing single-stent products. This innovation helped Glaukos become the market leader with over 50% share in the MIGS devices market.

Acquisitions: Companies have strengthened their product portfolio and distribution networks through strategic acquisitions. For example, in 2018, Alcon acquired Abbott Medical Optics glaucoma franchise including the market-leading Align device. This helped Alcon enter the glaucoma market and now it is one of the top players.

Geographic expansion: Players are focusing on emerging markets which are expected to be the future growth regions. For instance, Glaukos expanded to China and Latin America in 2018-19 through partnerships and regulatory approvals. This pre-emptive strategy will help Glaukos cement its leadership position as these markets evolve.

R&D Investments: Sustained investments in R&D have resulted in revolutionary new products and technologies. According to WHO, MIGS device manufacturers invested over USD 500 million in R&D between 2014-18 which led to FDA approvals for Innfocus' Cypass Micro-Stent and Ivantis' Hydrus Microstent. These innovative products have powered the growth of these companies in the post-pandemic times.

The above examples effectively illustrate how strategic acquisitions, new product launches, geographic expansion and R&D investments have helped key players gain competitive advantage and increase market share.

Insights, By Product Type, Growing Preference for Minimally Invasive Procedures Boosts MIGS Devices Segment.

The Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS) Devices segment is expected to contribute the highest share 45.5% in 2024 due to the growing preference for minimally invasive glaucoma surgery procedures. MIGS devices offer several advantages over traditional glaucoma drainage surgery like less recovery time, reduced risk of infection, and minimal post-operative issues like bleeding or inflammation. Patients are more inclined towards MIGS procedures as they result in less discomfort and quicker return to normal activities compared to conventional invasive surgeries.

MIGS devices aim to improve aqueous humor outflow through various mechanisms such as creating a bypass under the conjunctiva or using a subconjunctival shunt. This minimizes disruption to surrounding ocular tissues and reduces the risks associated with penetrating deep into the eye. The micro-scale tubes, stents and ab-interno delivery methods employed in MIGS devices make them an attractive option for surgeons as well. MIGS surgeries can now be performed as standalone operations or in combination with cataract surgeries to effectively lower intraocular pressure.

Leading players are constantly introducing new product lines and technologies within the MIGS devices segment. Schlemm's canal devices that clear the natural pathway for fluid drainage are gaining popularity. New generation supraciliary MIGS devices offer adjustable flow rates and unprecedented control over aqueous outflow. Clinical studies validating the safety, efficacy and long-term outcomes of various MIGS procedures and devices continue to expand their clinical adoption. With rising glaucoma prevalence worldwide and growing preference for micro-invasive treatments, the demand for MIGS devices is expected to surge in the coming years.

Insights, By Application, Hospital Dominate on Account of Established Glaucoma Treatment Centers

Among the application, hospital is expected to contribute the highest share 55.3% in 2024. This can be attributed to the well-established glaucoma treatment centers located within major hospitals. They have the necessary infrastructure, equipment, surgical facilities and glaucoma specialists/ophthalmologists to regularly perform various glaucoma surgeries including glaucoma drainage device implantation.

Hospitals also offer benefits like round-the-clock monitoring in the post-operative period, especially important after invasive glaucoma procedures. The availability of various diagnostic technologies further aids accurate diagnosis and treatment planning. The presence of specialized glaucoma clinics and outpatient services within hospitals enhances accessibility and continuity of care. A large patient pool relies on hospitals as their preferred healthcare service provider for all stages of glaucoma management.

While ambulatory surgical centers and specialty clinics are increasingly providing glaucoma surgeries, the complexity and level of post-operative care required makes hospitals the go-to destination. Hospitals can better manage surgical risks and complications if they arise. With rising glaucoma prevalence in an aging population, the number of glaucoma surgeries performed annually at hospital setups is increasing steadily. This will continue to drive the highest demand for glaucoma drainage devices from the hospital application segment over the forecast period.

The global glaucoma drainage devices market is projected to grow at a significant rate, driven by the increasing prevalence of glaucoma and associated lifestyle diseases such as diabetes and hypertension. The rising geriatric population is particularly vulnerable to glaucoma, with more than 34.2 million people in the U.S. living with diabetes, doubling their risk of glaucoma. North America is expected to dominate the market, with key players like Johnson & Johnson and Alcon contributing to growth through product innovations and strategic acquisitions. Minimally invasive glaucoma surgery (MIGS) devices, such as Schlemm’s Canal MIGS Devices, are gaining popularity due to their effectiveness in reducing intraocular pressure while minimizing risks. Despite challenges like device complications and limited efficacy, technological advances, and the rising demand for better glaucoma management solutions will sustain market expansion.

The major players operating in the Glaucoma Drainage Devices Market include Johnson & Johnson, AbbVie Inc, Alcon Inc, Glaukos Corporation, Santen Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd, NovaEye Medical Limited, iSTAR Medical SA, Rheon Medical SA, New World Medical Inc and Aurolab.

• In October 2022, Alcon completed the acquisition of Ivantis, maker of the Hydrus Microstent, a minimally invasive glaucoma surgery tool designed to reduce eye pressure in open-angle glaucoma patients undergoing cataract surgery.
• In November 2021, iSTAR Medical received European market approval for the MINIject glaucoma implant, which reduces intraocular pressure by enhancing aqueous humor outflow.
• In May 2021, Santen Canada received Health Canada approval for the PRESERFLO MicroShunt to reduce intraocular pressure in patients with primary open-angle glaucoma.

• • By Product Type
    • Minimally Invasive Glaucoma Surgery (MIGS) Devices
    • Schlemm’s Canal MIGS Devices
    • Suprachoroidal MIGS Devices
    • Subconjunctival MIGS Devices
  • By Application
    • Hospitals
    • Ambulatory Surgical Centers
    • Specialty Clinics