Hydrocephalus Shunt Market – By Product Type, By Procedure Type, By Age Group, By End Use – Global Forecast, 2025 – 2035

Hydrocephalus Shunt Market Size

The global hydrocephalus shunt market was valued at USD 295.7 million in 2024 and is projected to exhibit 3.5% CAGR from 2025-2035. The growth of the market is characterized by increase in hydrocephalus prevalence due to traumatic brain injuries (TBI) and brain tumors resulting in increased demand.
 

The Hydrocephalus Association indicates that at least 1 in every 770 babies born will be affected with hydrocephalus, and that approximately 1 million people in the U.S. have hydrocephalus. The incident globally of congenital hydrocephalus alone is estimated to be 0.5 - 1 per 1,000 live births. Additionally, as the incidence of hydrocephalus disease increases, so too, will the demand for hydrocephalus shunt systems. It is reported by MoHREC, that there are 36,000 procedures performed annually with many considered as emergencies, greater than one every 15 minutes. Greater than 40,000 hospital admissions for pediatric patients can be attributed to hydrocephalus every year.
 

Moreover, improvement to technologies including programmable and adjustable pressure shunt valves, anti-siphon devices and biocompatible materials improve patient outcomes while reducing complications, thus also furthering a market for hydrocephalus shunt systems. The advent of smart shunt systems with remote patient monitoring and pressure sensors allow for real-time regulation of CSF flow, thus minimizing revisions. The leading suppliers including Medtronic, B Braun, and Integra LifeSciences have made and are making significant research and development investments to introduce innovative product offerings to market.
 

A hydrocephalus shunt is a medical device to treat hydrocephalus, which is a condition that causes excess cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) to accumulate in a patient's brain's ventricles leading to increased pressures inside the skull. A hydrocephalus shunt is a drainage system that is surgically implanted and designed to divert CSF from the brain to another part of the body where it then can be absorbed. The goal of is to relieve pressures in the brain and hopefully prevent damage.
 

Hydrocephalus Shunt Market Trends

• The global aging population leads to a higher incidence of normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH) which is frequently confused with dementia. More accurate assessment and diagnosis of NPH has led to an increased desire for shunt systems, growing the market and increasing the pressure for less invasive treatment options.
   
• The number of manufacturers increasingly working on programmable shunt valves that allow physicians to non-invasively alter CSF drainage rates with the use of magnetic tools.
   
• With the advent of programmable systems, complications like over-drainage are minimized and the need for revision surgeries is reduced.  A programmable system is becoming more favorable and increasingly selected over a fixed-pressure shunt with both pediatric and adult patients.
   
• Developing countries, especially some in Asia, Latin America and Africa, are making strides toward better neurosurgical capacity and healthcare access. Government funding, education, and insurance access have all contributed to an increased acceptance of hydrocephalus shunts now versus previous decades when hydrocephalus meant untreated infant mortality.
   

Hydrocephalus Shunt Market Analysis

Based on product type, the market is bifurcated into hydrocephalus valves and hydrocephalus catheter. The hydrocephalus valves segment is further sub-segmented into adjusted pressure valves and fixed pressure valves. Additionally, the hydrocephalus catheters segment is further sub-segmented into standard catheters and antibiotic catheters. The hydrocephalus valves segment dominated the market with the largest revenue share of 85.1% in 2024.
 

• Hydrocephalus valves, a key part of hydrocephalus shunts, are experiencing growth due to technological development, innovation and the increased incidence of hydrocephalus and its surgeries. Non-invasive control of pressures will help in improving outcomes for patients and decreasing the need for revision surgeries.
   
• This situation, coupled with the increase in birth rates in developing areas and the growing aging population in developed countries, is creating a significant global incidence of hydrocephalus. The increased surgical rates associated with shunt implantation are contributing to the demand for systems with reliable, customizable, and durable valve systems.
   
• Increased awareness of hydrocephalus and its surgical management has allowed this segment of the market to grow and increase the use of programmable and antimicrobial-coated valves, especially in tertiary care centres.
   
• Increasing cases of congenital hydrocephalus are increasing the interest in advanced valve technologies, such as anti-siphon and programmable valves, which have shown lower revision rates and improved costs versus non-programmable valves.
   
• Therefore, the aforementioned factors are expected to significantly boost segment growth over the forecast period.
   

Based on procedure type, the hydrocephalus shunt market is segmented into ventriculoperitoneal, lumboperitoneal, ventriculoatrial, and ventriculopleural. The ventriculoperitoneal segment dominated the market with the largest revenue of USD 196.7 million in 2024 and is also expected to grow at a significant CAGR over the forecast period.
 

• The segment involving the VP shunt procedure is growing rapidly as a result of various clinical, technological, and demographic factors. The VP shunt operation is the most popular surgical method for hydrocephalus because it remains effective, is relatively easily modified, and most importantly, has fewer benefits and parallels to other methods of shunting.
   
• VP shunting is just less costly than ETV or newer experimental shunt types . In every public and private healthcare setting and invariable circumstances it remains the least cost-effective method, especially when treating paediatrics and in lower-middle-income countries.
   
• There are higher occurrences of children's congenital aspects of hydrocephalus, as well as adults with normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH), which also add to the length increase in VP shunt placement. An article published in 2022 of Acta Neurochirurgica states that over 90% percent of the time, in NPH cases, a VP shunt was favoured.
   
• Therefore, the aforementioned factors are expected to significantly boost segment growth over the forecast period.
   

Based on age group, the hydrocephalus shunt market is bifurcated into pediatric and adult. The pediatric segment dominated the market with the largest revenue share of 72.6% in 2024.
 

• Market growth is primarily driven by growth in the pediatric population and technology advances in medical devices with the development of shunt systems that are specifically designed for children and infants that also acknowledge their unique anatomical and physiological features. This growth is supported by UNICEF which reported approximately 134.28 million births will be reported globally in 2023 with approximately 36,700 babies born per day globally.
   
• In addition, advances in levels of care at neonatal intensive care units (NICUs) and subsequently improved rates of survival for premature infants, have led to the increased incidence of post-hemorrhagic hydrocephalus among premature infants, particularly very low birth weight infants. Studies report that as many as 25% of infants born preterm with an intraventricular hemorrhage will eventually develop hydrocephalus, with the need for placement of a shunt. As the survival of premature babies continues to increase the demand for the implementation of pediatric shunts will increase, thus contributing to market growth.
   
• Manufacturers are investing in shunts that are pediatric specific. For instance, with smaller diameters of catheters and tunable pressure settings, compatibility with MR imaging (MRIs) and having antimicrobial coating. These innovations allow for implantation in younger patients to be safer and better controlled, which can greatly accelerate adoption amongst pediatric neurosurgeons.
   
• Therefore, the aforementioned factors are expected to significantly boost segment growth over the forecast period.
   

Based on end use, the hydrocephalus shunt market is segmented into hospitals and ambulatory surgical centers. The hospitals segment dominated the market with the largest revenue of USD 231 million in 2024.
 

• The hospitals segment leads the market due to their role in the management of life-threatening conditions associated with conditions like hydrocephalus that may require shunt placement for treatment.
   
• With increased awareness for the evaluation and management of hydrocephalus from healthcare providers and patients, there has been a corresponding increase in hospital visits. Neonatal and geriatric screening programs have greatly impacted this increase. In July 2023, Springer Nature Journal noted that UNICEF and WHO initiatives have led to a 30-40% increase in pediatric neurosurgical admissions in developing countries over the past 5 years, which is increasing demand for hydrocephalus shunts.
   
• In addition to diagnosis, Hospitals can help manage post-surgical complications like shunt malfunctions and infections, requiring multiple hospital visits for revision surgeries over the patient’s lifetime. This has led to more service utilization for hospitals, as there is than an ongoing need for hospital services, as well as more needs for additional shunt disposal.
   
• Research suggested that about 40-50% of pediatric hydrocephalus patients require at least one shunt revision within 24 months of their first surgery, which increases the utilization rates for hospitals.
   
• Therefore, the aforementioned factors are expected to significantly boost segment growth over the forecast period.
   

The North America hydrocephalus shunt market was valued at USD 117.1 million in 2024 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 3.1% over the forecast period. The market is driven by the increasing aging population across the region.
 

The U.S. market is projected to grow significantly from USD 108 million in 2024 to USD 146.3 million by 2034.
 

• Hydrocephalus impacts over a million people living in the U.S., with nearly 33,000 shunt placements performed annually. Hydrocephalus is predominantly seen in infants and the elderly demographic. For instance, approximately 1 to 2 in every 1,000 babies born have hydrocephalus. The on-going rise in neurological diseases, such as stroke, or traumatic brain injuries, accounts for additional increases in hydrocephalus shunts.
   
• Unprecedented advances in new technology have produced programmable shunts (and anti-siphon devices), which can be adjusted non-invasively and lessen complication such as over-drainage. These advances have improved patient outcomes and have decreased the need for revision surgeries. Products such as the ReFlow Mini Flusher have been created to enhance cerebrospinal fluid management.
   
• Research and development programs are gaining traction because of significant spending in the market. The National Institute of Neurological Disorders and Stroke (NINDS) has recently awarded $14 million to Johns Hopkins for studies in hydrocephalus treatment. The Hydrocephalus Association has funded more than $12 million in research programs since 2009, improving therapeutic outcomes and decreasing shunt infections.
   
• Therefore, the aforementioned factors are expected to significantly boost regional growth over the forecast period.
   

Europe hydrocephalus shunt market was valued at USD 87.5 million in 2024 and is expected to grow at a CAGR of 3.5% over the forecast period.
 

• Europe has a rising patient population afflicted with hydrocephalus, particularly in the older adult and pediatric populations. The prevalence of normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH) is all ages, particularly older adults, is estimated to be between 0.5% to 2.9% in adults aged over 65 years in Europe. The pediatric incidence of hydrocephalus ranges from 0.5 to 1.5 per 1000 live births in European countries.
   
• Additionally, the development of improved shunt systems including the use of programmable and anti-siphon valve shunts resulting in enhanced treatment outcomes have enhanced the market.
   
• Moreover, government initiatives and funding for neurological care are another significant contributing factor driving the market. Governments of the European Union and national funding initiative improving neurosurgical care and provide funding for research. However, the European Reference Network for Rare Neurological Diseases (ERN-RND) has initiatives that aim to support early diagnosis and treatment of hydrocephalus and other rare neurological diseases which adds to the growth of the market.
   
• Health systems in countries such as France and Germany reimbursing for hydrocephalus shunt procedure are also supporting the use of hydrocephalus shunting emergency procedures expansion.
   

The hydrocephalus shunt market in UK is expected to experience significant and promising growth from 2025 to 2035.
 

• Hydrocephalus affects people of all ages across the UK. There is a higher incidence of Hydrocephalus in infants and older adults, 1 out of every 1,000 babies is born with Hydrocephalus, and the older population is at increased risk for Hydrocephalus for reasons such as dementia and due to infections, tumours, and brain hemorrhages. Awareness combined with increased diagnostic resources means there is an increasing need for shunt systems which ultimately will increase overall market growth.
   
• With further advances in technology, we are seeing programmable shunt valves allowing Dr.s in the non-invasive setting to alter the rates of cerebrospinal fluid drainage (CSF) independently of offline fixed pressures of drainage. This again reduces concern for complications such as over drainage and reduces further risk for patients having a revision surgery.
   
• There has been a shift toward the use of technologies with programmable shunt valves compared to having a fixed-pressure shunt in the pediatric applications. Similarly, with adults as well.
   
• Hence, the above-mentioned factors are propelling the market growth in the region.
   

The Asia Pacific hydrocephalus shunt market is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR of 4.1% over the forecast period.
 

• The Asia Pacific market is steadily growing driven by the increasing number of hydrocephalus cases, improved healthcare access, and increasing government investments for act neurological infrastructure. For example, the International Journal of Academic Medicine and Pharmacy indicates that hydrocephalus occurs in 11.20 children with 10,000 live births per year in India, representing approximately 30,240 affected children annually.
   
• Shunts, specifically ventriculoperitoneal (VP) shunts, may be used in the treatment of hydrocephalus, which acts to positively affect the expansion of brain tissues, especially in children.
   
• With an increasing population of elderly adults in countries like China, India, and Japan which has a different, but increasing population of hydrocephalus incidence with advancing age. This demographic trend is a supporting factor for the increased demand of shunt systems.
   
• For example, according to a World Bank report, more than 29% of the population are 65+ in Japan, the highest in the world. Furthermore, according to the State Council Information Office, as of 2024 China will have over 310.3 million individuals who are 60+, projected to reach 400 million by 2035. This is likely to contribute more to the demand for shunt systems due to age related hydrocephalus.
   

Japan hydrocephalus shunt market is anticipated to witness lucrative growth between 2025 – 2035.
 

• The demographic trends of an aging population in Japan has resulted in an increase in age-related neurological conditions, including normal pressure hydrocephalus (NPH). As the aging population trend continues in Japan, it is anticipated that there will be increased demand for hydrocephalus and shunt procedures. Japan's excellent healthcare system promotes early detection and treatment, also increasing the demand for shunt procedures and stimulating market growth.
   
• Japanese medical device companies are taking the lead in developing new and improved hydrocephalus shunt technology. These technologies include new programmable valves and anti-siphon devices that allow non-invasive adjustments and reduce complications. Many medical practitioners are beginning to use these devices, which represent a significant improvement in patient care.
   
• Additionally, as the Japanese government is developing a number of policies geared towards enhancing medical device innovation, collaboration, and access to emerging technologies, they are working to promote the healthcare sector. Collaborative projects like a joint investment plan with India to support medical equipment production will only strengthen the healthcare sector in Japan by making the newest shunt systems available to the market.
   
• Therefore, the aforementioned factors are expected to significantly boost regional growth over the forecast period.
   

Brazil hydrocephalus shunt market is anticipated to witness lucrative growth between 2025 – 2035.
 

• An increase in the population of Brazil, coupled with better capacity for diagnosis, is leading to higher numbers of diagnosed cases of hydrocephalus. Hydrocephalus happens to people of all ages, but has a significant impact on infants and the elderly. With enhancements to awareness and capacity for diagnosis, the demand for shunt systems is increasing, which will help grow the market.
   
• Recent technological advances have developed programmable shunt valves, which have made it possible for physicians to alter the rate of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) drainage without resorting to reoperation. These developments mitigate the complications of over-drainage and reduce the need for revision surgery. These innovations are also becoming more popular than fixed-pressure shunts in both the pediatric and adult populations.
   
• Brazil's healthcare system has undergone improvements recently; more money is being put into facilities and equipment. More neurosurgical centers have opened in Brazil, and there are a growing number of specialized medical professionals working in the country. The increasing capacity for Brazil to diagnose and manage hydrocephalus has resulted in a higher demand hydrocephalus shunt procedure.
   
• Therefore, the aforementioned factors are expected to significantly boost regional growth over the forecast period.
   

Middle East and Africa: The Saudi Arabia hydrocephalus shunt market is expected to experience significant and promising growth from 2025 to 2035.
 

• In Saudi Arabia, hydrocephalus impacts people of all age demographics. However, hydrocephalus more commonly affects infants and older individuals, with 1 or 2 in every 1,000 babies born with hydrocephalus. Also, older adults may be predisposed to develop hydrocephalus due to dementia, infections, brain tumors, or the effects of hemorrhages. As the awareness and accurate diagnosis of hydrocephalus increases, the market for shunt systems and programming systems is anticipated to grow.
   
• Hydrocephalus will most likely also benefit from technological advancements with programmable shunt valves that allow a physician to non-invasively adjust the rate of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) drainage. These newly developed shunt systems are advantageous in avoiding complications such as over-drainage and extra revision surgeries. Programmable systems are now more commonly preferred and utilized than fixed-pressure shunts in adult and pediatric patients.
   
• Saudi Arabia has experienced substantial gains in the healthcare system, and into the future, there has been a higher investment in medical infrastructure, and equipment and more neurosurgical centers and medical professionals in the country to diagnose hydrocephalus and provide more treatment options. Therefore, an increase in demand for hydrocephalus shunt procedures has steadily increased.
   
• Therefore, the aforementioned factors are expected to significantly boost market growth in the region over the forecast period.
   

Hydrocephalus Shunt Market Share

The market has a dynamic mix of international and domestic players providing innovative solutions to meet the growing demand for advanced treatments for the growing patient population. Companies such as Medtronic, Integra LifeSciences Corporation, and B. Braun are some of the dominant competitors in the market accounting for a combined market share of approximately 95%. Competition in this area arises from continuous technological developments and the ability to offer customized solutions.
 

In developing nations, due to the priority given to cost, multinational companies are squeezed to offer hydrocephalus shunt that are both affordable and of quality. Domestic manufacturers take advantage of this demand by providing cost effective alternatives, which make multinationals alter their price strategy while maintaining the safety, ruggedness, and regulatory acceptability of the products.
 

Hydrocephalus Shunt Market Companies

Some of the eminent market participants operating in the Hydrocephalus shunt industry include:

• B. Braun
• DESU
• G. Surgiwear
• HLL Lifecare
• Hpbio
• Integra LifeSciences Holdings
• Kaneka Medix
• Luciole Medical
• Medtronic
• Neutral Pharma
• Sophysa
• Wellong Instruments Co.
   
• Medtronic occupies a distinctive and advantageous position in the market thanks to its technologically advanced and trusted Strata valve with programmable settings for CSF drainage. Overall strength for Medtronic lies in its long history of innovation, building trust in the neurosurgical community thanks to a compendium of clinical data and global clinician trust.
   
• Integra LifeSciences has positioned itself as the integrated product ecosystem with a focus on pediatric hydrocephalus purchasers, providing a customized selection of full-featured shunt systems, including its NPH and LP valve. Integra’s programmable valve technologies are known to be both precise and adjustable to improve clinical outcomes over time in complex cases. Integra has focused serious attention and resources on research and development to improve valve durability and infection resistance, including antimicrobial catheter coatings.
   
• B. Braun Melsungen AG's unique selling point (USP) in the market is hinged on the engineering excellence and physician-driven innovation of its MIETHKE brand, namely its gravitational valve systems such as proGAV and M.blue. The devices basically adjust the pressure setting dependent on the patient's body position which minimizes the risk of over-drainage and subsequent complications, an important milestone in enhancing patient safety for both adult and pediatric populations.
   

The hydrocephalus shunt market research report includes an in-depth coverage of the industry with estimates and forecast in terms of revenue in USD Million from 2021 – 2035 for the following segments:

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By Product Type

• Hydrocephalus valves
  • Adjusted pressure valves
  • Fixed Pressure valves
• Hydrocephalus catheter
  • Standard catheters
  • Antibiotic catheters

By Procedure Type

• Ventriculoperitoneal
• Lumboperitoneal
• Ventriculoatrial
• Ventriculopleural

By Age Group

• Pediatric
• Adult

By End Use

• Hospitals
• Ambulatory surgical centers

The above information is provided for the following regions and countries:

• North America 
  • U.S.
  • Canada
• Europe 
  • Germany
  • UK
  • France
  • Italy
  • Spain
  • Netherlands
• Asia Pacific 
  • Japan
  • China
  • India
  • Australia
  • South Korea
• Latin America 
  • Brazil
  • Mexico
• Middle East and Africa 
  • South Africa
  • Saudi Arabia
  • UAE