The global radioactive stent used for cancer treatments market size was valued at USD 1.54 billion in 2024 and is estimated to reach USD 3.05 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 7.89% during the forecast period (2025–2033). The global rise in cancer cases, particularly cancers like esophageal, lung, and colorectal cancer, is a significant driver of the radioactive stent market. As the number of cancer patients grows, the need for effective palliative treatments like radioactive stents increases.
A radioactive stent used for cancer treatments is a medical device designed to relieve obstructions caused by tumors, particularly in areas like the esophagus, bile ducts, and airways. These stents are coated or impregnated with radioactive material that delivers targeted radiation therapy to nearby cancer cells.
The radioactive stent serves a dual purpose; it physically supports the blocked area to prevent collapse, while the radiation it emits helps shrink the tumor and prevent its growth. Typically used in palliative care, radioactive stents are often deployed in patients with advanced cancers that are not easily treatable by surgery.
Advancements in stent technology
Advancements in stent technology are a major driver in the growth of the global radioactive stent market. Technological innovations in stent design and materials have significantly improved the safety, efficacy, and durability of radioactive stents. Modern stents now feature better biocompatibility, which reduces complications like infection or rejection.
For instance, the development of drug-eluting radioactive stents has enhanced their ability to not only relieve obstructions but also to slow down tumor growth by releasing therapeutic agents over time. An example of this is Cook Medical’s introduction of a stent with a combination of radioactive isotopes that provides localized treatment while minimizing exposure to surrounding tissues. This advancement improves patient outcomes by making treatments more targeted and reducing side effects.
Moreover, these improved stents are designed for longer usage, offering better functionality for cancer patients who require long-term symptom management. Such technological breakthroughs make radioactive stents an increasingly attractive option in cancer therapy.
High cost of treatment
The high cost of treatment is a significant restraint in the global radioactive stent market. The cost of radioactive stent procedures can be prohibitively expensive, which limits accessibility, especially in low and middle-income countries. A single radioactive stent can cost anywhere between $1,500 to $5,000, depending on the type, manufacturer, and the complexity of the procedure.
This is in addition to other costs associated with the procedure, such as hospital stays, imaging, and follow-up care. The high cost can deter many patients from opting for this treatment, especially if they lack insurance coverage. As a result, while radioactive stents provide effective palliative care, the financial burden remains a barrier to their widespread use in regions with limited healthcare resources.
Development of biodegradable radioactive stents
The development of biodegradable radioactive stents presents a significant market opportunity. These stents are designed to dissolve naturally in the body after fulfilling their therapeutic purpose, eliminating the need for removal procedures. This advancement could reduce healthcare costs and patient discomfort while improving treatment outcomes.Biodegradable stents also minimize the long-term risks associated with metal stents, such as migration, infection, or obstruction.
For example, Boston Scientific has been exploring biodegradable stent technology with the development of a biodegradable coronary stent, which is expected to improve patient recovery and reduce complications. This innovation has the potential to revolutionize the use of radioactive stents, as it combines the benefits of targeted cancer treatment with the convenience of eliminating the need for future intervention.
As biodegradable materials and technology continue to advance, radioactive stents designed with these features could gain significant traction in both developed and emerging markets, making cancer treatment more affordable and effective.
| ATTRIBUTES | DETAILS |
|---|---|
| Study Period | 2021-2033 |
| Historical Year | 2021-2024 |
| Forecast Period | 2025-2033 |
| By Type |
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| By Stent Type |
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| By Applications |
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| By Demographics |
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| Regional Insights |
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Esophageal Stenting is the dominant segment in the global radioactive stent used for the cancer treatment market. Esophageal cancer often leads to obstruction of the esophagus, causing difficulty in swallowing. Radioactive stents are used to alleviate this obstruction and deliver localized radiation therapy to the tumor site.
Given the high incidence of esophageal cancer and the effectiveness of radioactive stents in improving patient quality of life, this segment leads the market. As the global prevalence of esophageal cancer continues to rise, the demand for esophageal stenting remains robust, making it a key focus for the market.
Metallic stents dominate the global radioactive stent market due to their superior strength, durability, and ability to maintain patency in the targeted areas, making them highly effective for cancer treatment. Metallic stents, especially those made from stainless steel or nitinol, are favored for applications such as biliary and esophageal stenting.
Their resistance to corrosion and ability to withstand the mechanical forces of the body ensure long-term functionality. Due to their reliable performance in delivering radiation therapy and providing structural support, the widespread use of metallic stents drives their dominance in this segment.
Palliative Treatment is the dominant application segment. Radioactive stents are widely used in palliative care to relieve symptoms and improve the quality of life for patients with advanced cancer, particularly in cases involving esophageal, biliary, or tracheobronchial obstructions. The focus on symptom management, rather than curative treatment, makes palliative applications crucial in oncology.
As the number of cancer diagnoses continues to rise globally, palliative treatments remain a vital approach for providing comfort and extending life expectancy for patients in terminal stages of the disease.
Geriatric patients represent the dominant demographic segment. Older adults often face higher incidences of cancers, such as esophageal, biliary, and gastric cancers, and are more likely to require palliative care. The geriatric population also experiences age-related complications, such as frailty, that make non-invasive treatments like stenting particularly beneficial.
With the global aging population growing, the demand for radioactive stents tailored for elderly patients is expected to rise, solidifying the geriatric segment as the most significant demographic in this market.
North America holds a dominant share of more than 40% of the global market, driven by advanced healthcare infrastructure, high cancer prevalence, and significant research investments. The United States, in particular, plays a crucial role with its well-established oncology sector and a high demand for innovative cancer treatment solutions. A key factor contributing to this dominance is the extensive adoption of advanced medical technologies, including radioactive stents, in hospitals and cancer treatment centers across the country.
For example, the American Cancer Society estimates that over 2 million new cancer cases will be diagnosed in the U.S. by the end of 2024, creating a substantial need for palliative treatments like radioactive stents. Moreover, institutions like the Mayo Clinic and MD Anderson Cancer Center are leading the way in offering cutting-edge cancer treatments, including the use of radioactive stents for esophageal and lung cancers.
Government funding and healthcare initiatives further support market growth with increased investments in cancer research and treatment accessibility. This positions North America as the largest market for radioactive stents, with the U.S. at the forefront of adopting advanced cancer therapies to improve patient outcomes and enhance the quality of life for those with obstructive tumors.
