Market Overview:
The thyroid ablation devices market size was valued at USD 228 million in 2024 and is anticipated to reach USD 464.4 million by 2032, at a CAGR of 9.3% during the forecast period.
| REPORT ATTRIBUTE |
DETAILS |
| Historical Period |
2020-2023 |
| Base Year |
2024 |
| Forecast Period |
2025-2032 |
| Thyroid Ablation Devices Market Size 2024 |
USD 228 million |
| Thyroid Ablation Devices Market, CAGR |
9.3% |
| Thyroid Ablation Devices Market Size 2032 |
USD 464.4 million |
The thyroid ablation devices market is shaped by leading players such as Olympus Corporation, STARmed Co., Ltd., Johnson & Johnson, Stryker Corporation, Theraclion SA, MedWaves, Inc., Medtronic plc, Terumo Corporation, BVM Medical Limited, Integra Lifesciences Holdings Corporation, AngioDynamics, Inc., and Boston Scientific Corporation. These companies drive growth through continuous product innovation, strategic collaborations, and global expansion efforts. North America emerged as the dominant region in 2024, holding about 38% of the global market share, supported by advanced healthcare infrastructure, favorable reimbursement frameworks, and early adoption of minimally invasive ablation technologies across hospitals and outpatient centers.
Market Insights
- The thyroid ablation devices market was valued at USD 228 million in 2024 and is projected to reach USD 464.4 million by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 9.3%.
- Rising prevalence of thyroid nodules and cancers, coupled with a strong shift toward minimally invasive procedures, is driving demand for advanced ablation technologies.
- Market trends highlight growing adoption of radiofrequency ablation, which held over 55% share in 2024, while microwave ablation is gaining traction for larger nodules and faster outcomes.
- The competitive landscape is shaped by global players investing in innovation, partnerships, and expansion into emerging economies to improve accessibility and strengthen their product portfolios.
- North America led the market with about 38% share in 2024, followed by Europe with 28%, while Asia-Pacific held 22% and recorded the fastest growth; thyroid nodules remained the leading application segment with nearly 60% share.
Access crucial information at unmatched prices!
Request your sample report today & start making informed decisions powered by Credence Research Inc.!
Download Sample
Market Segmentation Analysis:
By Type
Radiofrequency ablation dominated the thyroid ablation devices market in 2024 with over 55% share, driven by its high precision, minimal invasiveness, and strong adoption in outpatient procedures. Its effectiveness in treating benign thyroid nodules and offering reduced complication risks has made it the preferred technique among clinicians. Microwave ablation is also expanding, supported by shorter procedure times and improved energy delivery for larger nodules. Other types, including laser-based and emerging technologies, hold a smaller share but are gaining traction with ongoing advancements in minimally invasive oncology.
- For instance, in a study of 154 Bethesda III/IV thyroid nodules treated via thermal ablation (microwave or radiofrequency) between 2016-2023, the median volume reduction rate (VRR) at 12 months was 97 % for Bethesda III and 88 % for Bethesda IV nodules.
By Product
Thermal-based devices accounted for nearly 70% of the thyroid ablation devices market in 2024, making them the leading product category. Their dominance is attributed to established clinical acceptance, reliable outcomes in nodule reduction, and wide availability of radiofrequency and microwave systems. These devices are favored for their cost-effectiveness and suitability in outpatient settings. Non-thermal devices, including chemical ablation and newer modalities, are gradually gaining ground, especially in cases where heat-based damage poses a risk, but they currently represent a smaller share due to limited adoption.
- For instance, a 5-year follow-up multicenter study involving 406 patients with benign thyroid nodules treated via RFA or laser ablation showed technique efficacy (≥50 % volume reduction at 1 year) in 85 % of RFA patients and 63 % of LA patients.
By Application
Thyroid nodules held the largest application share in 2024, representing around 60% of the thyroid ablation devices market. Rising prevalence of benign nodules, patient preference for non-surgical treatments, and favorable reimbursement in developed regions have boosted demand in this segment. Ablation procedures are increasingly replacing traditional surgeries due to shorter recovery and lower costs. Thyroid cancer applications also show robust growth, driven by rising cancer detection rates and adoption of ablation as a supportive therapy for patients unsuitable for surgery, though this segment remains smaller compared to nodules.
Market Overview
Rising Prevalence of Thyroid Disorders
The growing incidence of thyroid nodules and cancers is a key growth driver for the thyroid ablation devices market. Rising awareness and improved diagnostic imaging have led to higher detection rates, creating strong demand for minimally invasive treatments. Patients increasingly prefer ablation over surgery due to reduced risks, shorter hospital stays, and faster recovery times. This shift, combined with supportive clinical guidelines, has significantly fueled market adoption, particularly in developed regions with advanced healthcare infrastructure.
- For instance, in a study of 81 patients with a single overactive thyroid nodule treated by RFA, 76 of 81 (≈93.8 %) achieved normalization of thyroid function within follow-up, mostly in first month.
Shift Toward Minimally Invasive Procedures
The increasing preference for minimally invasive procedures is another major driver of market growth. Radiofrequency and microwave ablation devices are gaining popularity due to reduced complications, cost efficiency, and quick recovery benefits compared to traditional thyroidectomy. Healthcare providers and patients are adopting these techniques as outpatient options, reducing the overall burden on hospitals. Advancements in device precision and energy control have further improved clinical outcomes, accelerating the adoption of ablation technologies worldwide.
- For instance, the “10-Year Clinical Follow-up for RFA of Thyroid Nodules” evaluated 456 benign nodules in 421 patients; these showed volume reductions averaging 63 % at 6 months, 81 % at 2 years, 90 % at 5 years, and 94 % at 10 years.
Technological Advancements in Ablation Devices
Continuous innovations in ablation technology remain a critical driver for this market. Improved imaging guidance, enhanced electrode designs, and advanced energy delivery systems have increased the safety and effectiveness of thyroid ablation. These advancements enable physicians to treat a broader range of thyroid nodules with higher accuracy. The integration of real-time monitoring and software-based control is also expanding applications in complex cases. Such innovations are making ablation devices more reliable and encouraging wider adoption in both developed and emerging markets.
Key Trends & Opportunities
Growing Adoption in Outpatient Settings
A strong trend shaping the thyroid ablation devices market is the rising shift toward outpatient and ambulatory surgical centers. These facilities offer patients lower costs and faster recovery, making them attractive alternatives to hospitals. Ablation technologies are well-suited for such environments due to their minimally invasive nature and shorter procedure times. The growing preference for outpatient treatment not only boosts market penetration but also creates opportunities for manufacturers to develop more portable and user-friendly systems designed for point-of-care use.
- For instance, in the Poland prospective cohort (2020-2023), 204 patients with solitary benign thyroid nodules: 164 of 204 (≈80.4 %) chose laser ablation over surgery or transoral endoscopic approaches.
Expansion into Emerging Markets
Emerging economies present significant opportunities for growth in the thyroid ablation devices market. Rising healthcare investments, growing awareness of minimally invasive techniques, and expanding diagnostic capabilities are fueling adoption in Asia-Pacific and Latin America. Governments are increasingly promoting advanced medical technologies, while private healthcare providers are investing in modern equipment. Manufacturers targeting these regions with cost-effective and versatile devices can tap into a large patient population, particularly where surgical capacity is limited. This trend is expected to strongly support market expansion over the forecast period.
- For instance, a Taiwan multicenter study across 5 medical centers treated 762 patients with 826 benign nodules using RFA (April 2016–July 2020), reporting 4.8% complications, all resolving without surgery.
Key Challenges
High Procedure and Device Costs
The relatively high cost of ablation devices and associated procedures is a major challenge for market expansion. In many regions, especially in developing countries, limited reimbursement policies make these treatments inaccessible to a large portion of the population. Hospitals and clinics may also hesitate to adopt advanced devices due to budget constraints. The need for skilled professionals further increases the cost burden. Addressing affordability through cost-effective technologies and wider reimbursement coverage will be essential for sustained market penetration.
Limited Awareness and Clinical Expertise
Despite growing adoption, limited awareness among patients and healthcare providers remains a significant barrier. Many clinicians still rely on conventional surgical approaches due to lack of training in ablation techniques. In addition, patients often lack knowledge about minimally invasive alternatives and their benefits. This gap in awareness slows adoption rates, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. Expanding physician training programs and raising patient education campaigns are crucial to overcome this challenge and broaden the global market reach.
Regional Analysis
North America
North America led the thyroid ablation devices market in 2024 with around 38% share, supported by advanced healthcare infrastructure, high adoption of minimally invasive procedures, and strong presence of leading device manufacturers. The region benefits from favorable reimbursement policies and rising awareness among patients regarding ablation as a safer alternative to surgery. The United States drives most of the demand, with increasing thyroid cancer cases and widespread use of radiofrequency ablation. Canada also contributes steadily with growing investment in outpatient and ambulatory care facilities, further strengthening regional adoption during the forecast period.
Europe
Europe accounted for nearly 28% of the thyroid ablation devices market in 2024, driven by the presence of well-established healthcare systems, increasing government focus on minimally invasive treatments, and growing incidence of thyroid disorders. Countries such as Germany, France, and the United Kingdom are at the forefront of adoption, supported by advanced clinical infrastructure and favorable healthcare spending. The region also benefits from strong regulatory support and clinical trials encouraging broader use of ablation technologies. Rising preference for outpatient treatment further contributes to the strong growth outlook across the European market.
Asia-Pacific
Asia-Pacific held around 22% of the thyroid ablation devices market in 2024 and is projected to grow at the fastest rate during the forecast period. The large patient pool, increasing prevalence of thyroid nodules, and improving diagnostic capabilities are fueling demand in the region. China, Japan, and South Korea are major contributors, driven by expanding healthcare investments and rising awareness of minimally invasive solutions. India and Southeast Asia also represent untapped opportunities with increasing private healthcare spending. Rapid expansion of ambulatory surgical centers and medical tourism further enhances the market outlook in Asia-Pacific.
Latin America
Latin America captured nearly 7% of the thyroid ablation devices market in 2024, supported by growing healthcare modernization and increasing adoption of advanced treatment technologies. Brazil leads the regional market, followed by Mexico, where private hospitals are investing in minimally invasive procedures. Limited reimbursement coverage remains a challenge, but rising patient preference for quicker recovery and less invasive options supports growth. Partnerships between global manufacturers and local distributors are helping improve accessibility of ablation devices. Expanding training initiatives for healthcare professionals also strengthens regional adoption over the forecast period.
Middle East & Africa
The Middle East and Africa accounted for about 5% of the thyroid ablation devices market in 2024, with growth driven by increasing healthcare investments in Gulf countries and rising awareness of thyroid disorders. Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates are the key contributors, supported by modern hospitals and rising adoption of advanced devices. Africa remains at an early stage due to limited infrastructure, but demand is slowly increasing with urbanization and expansion of private healthcare. Government focus on improving specialized care and medical tourism initiatives in the Middle East further support regional growth.
Market Segmentations:
By Type:
- Radiofrequency ablation
- Microwave ablation
- Other types
By Product:
- Thermal based devices
- Non-thermal based devices
By Application:
- Thyroid cancer
- Thyroid nodules
By Geography:
- North America
- Europe
- UK
- France
- Germany
- Italy
- Spain
- Russia
- Belgium
- Netherlands
- Austria
- Sweden
- Poland
- Denmark
- Switzerland
- Rest of Europe
- Asia Pacific
- China
- Japan
- South Korea
- India
- Australia
- Thailand
- Indonesia
- Vietnam
- Malaysia
- Philippines
- Taiwan
- Rest of Asia Pacific
- Latin America
- Brazil
- Argentina
- Peru
- Chile
- Colombia
- Rest of Latin America
- Middle East
- UAE
- KSA
- Israel
- Turkey
- Iran
- Rest of Middle East
- Africa
- Egypt
- Nigeria
- Algeria
- Morocco
- Rest of Africa
Competitive Landscape
The thyroid ablation devices market is characterized by strong competition, with leading players such as Olympus Corporation, STARmed Co., Ltd., Johnson & Johnson, Stryker Corporation, Theraclion SA, MedWaves, Inc., Medtronic plc, Terumo Corporation, BVM Medical Limited, Integra Lifesciences Holdings Corporation, AngioDynamics, Inc., and Boston Scientific Corporation actively shaping the industry. Companies are focusing on product innovation, expanding minimally invasive treatment portfolios, and integrating advanced imaging technologies to enhance precision and safety. Strategic collaborations with hospitals, research centers, and regional distributors are driving broader adoption and improving market penetration. Increasing investments in research and development are enabling the introduction of next-generation devices with improved energy delivery and monitoring features. In addition, many participants are expanding their presence in emerging economies by offering cost-effective solutions and localized training programs. Intense competition is also pushing firms to strengthen after-sales services and provide comprehensive physician support, further boosting long-term adoption of ablation technologies.
Shape Your Report to Specific Countries or Regions & Enjoy 30% Off!
Key Player Analysis
- Olympus Corporation
- STARmed Co., Ltd.
- Johnson & Johnson
- Stryker Corporation
- Theraclion SA
- MedWaves, Inc.
- Medtronic plc
- Terumo Corporation
- BVM Medical Limited
- Integra Lifesciences Holdings Corporation
- AngioDynamics, Inc.
- Boston Scientific Corporation
Recent Developments
- In 2024, Medtronic received FDA approval for its Affera mapping and ablation system, which uses both pulsed field ablation (PFA) and radiofrequency (RF) ablation to treat conditions like atrial fibrillation.
- In 2023, STARmed established its U.S. subsidiary, STARmed America, to focus on increasing access to its radiofrequency ablation (RFA) solutions.
- In 2022, Boston Scientific acquired a majority stake in Acotec Scientific Holdings, a developer of medical devices including radiofrequency ablation technologies.
Report Coverage
The research report offers an in-depth analysis based on Type, Product, Application and Geography. It details leading market players, providing an overview of their business, product offerings, investments, revenue streams, and key applications. Additionally, the report includes insights into the competitive environment, SWOT analysis, current market trends, as well as the primary drivers and constraints. Furthermore, it discusses various factors that have driven market expansion in recent years. The report also explores market dynamics, regulatory scenarios, and technological advancements that are shaping the industry. It assesses the impact of external factors and global economic changes on market growth. Lastly, it provides strategic recommendations for new entrants and established companies to navigate the complexities of the market.
Future Outlook
- The market will expand steadily with increasing preference for minimally invasive treatments.
- Radiofrequency ablation will continue dominating due to its safety and effectiveness.
- Microwave ablation will gain traction for larger nodules and faster procedures.
- Thermal-based devices will maintain the largest share across global markets.
- Thyroid nodules will remain the leading application segment with strong patient demand.
- North America will sustain leadership supported by advanced healthcare infrastructure.
- Asia-Pacific will record the fastest growth driven by rising healthcare investments.
- Technological advancements will improve precision, safety, and adoption of ablation devices.
- Outpatient and ambulatory surgical centers will emerge as major growth drivers.
- Expanding awareness and physician training will further accelerate global market adoption.
