Recent FDA approval for Boston Scientific’s new cryoablation system, named POLARx, is set to provide a new boost to the cryoablation segment of the ablation catheters market. In addition, the development is expected to result in increased competition in the segment, which was previously solely occupied by Medtronic and was worth $459.2 million in 2022 and is expected to reach $738.3 million by 2033, according to GlobalData, a leading Data and analytics company.

Aidan Robertson, Medical Analyst at GlobalData, comments: “The rivalry could prove to be beneficial for the market overall, as increased competition translates to better products and services that can meet a more diverse range of needs for patients. Until now, Medtronic has dominated this segment with its Freezor and Artic Front product lines, but now we may see a slight shift in the dynamics of the cryoablation catheter space.”

The newly approved system features the POLARx FIT which is a minimally invasive cryoablation balloon catheter intended to treat paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (AF) by providing cryotherapy to the pulmonary vein. Once the affected tissue is frozen, scar tissue is created which blocks irregular electrical signals.

Cryoablation has been slowly growing due to its ease of use relative to other ablation catheters, such as radiofrequency (RF) ablation or laser ablation. With a low risk and high success rate, it has become an ideal method for treating cardiac arrythmias. It is also more popular among physicians due to its improved efficiency, safety, and effectiveness. However, one barrier to the adoption of this procedure is its relatively high cost.

Robertson concludes: “The demand for more effective ablation catheters is increasing as the geriatric population continues to grow, which in turn increases the prevalence of cardiovascular diseases. With Boston Scientific launching into the cryoablation catheter segment, we can expect this competition to generate more fine-tuned products and services that can help push the overarching market forward.”