Burn Care Market

Burns are some of the most common and devastating injuries that can happen to anyone. Burns can be caused by heat, chemicals, radiation, or electricity, and can range from minor to life-threatening. Burn care is the treatment and management of burns, and it is essential for the recovery and survival of burn victims. In this essay, we will explore the importance of burn care, the different types of burns, and the various treatment options available.

Firstly, burn care is crucial in ensuring the best possible outcome for burn victims. Burns can be extremely painful and cause significant physical and emotional trauma. Proper care and management of burns can help reduce pain, prevent infection, and promote faster healing. Burn care also involves psychological support for the patient, which can help them cope with the physical and emotional trauma of their injuries.

Burns are classified into three types: first-degree burns, second-degree burns, and third-degree burns. First-degree burns affect the outer layer of skin and are characterized by redness and mild pain. Second-degree burns affect both the outer layer and the layer beneath and are characterized by blistering and severe pain. Third-degree burns are the most severe type and affect all layers of skin and underlying tissue, often resulting in white or charred skin, numbness, and a lack of pain due to nerve damage.

Treatment options for burns depend on the type and severity of the burn. For first-degree burns, home remedies like applying cool water or aloe vera gel can be effective in reducing pain and promoting healing. Second-degree burns may require medical treatment like dressings and topical creams to prevent infection and promote healing. Third-degree burns often require surgery, skin grafts, and long-term rehabilitation to restore function and minimize scarring.

Various treatment options are available for burn care, including advanced dressings, traditional burn care products, biologics, and others. Advanced dressings consist of various types such as alginate dressings, hydrogel dressings, foam dressings, hydrocolloid dressings, collagen dressings, and more. Biologics and traditional burn care products such as skin grafts are also commonly used. Patients and healthcare professionals, such as surgeons, physicians, and nurses, are becoming more aware of these products due to their wide availability in the market.

After the pandemic, the market for burn care products is expected to recover rapidly. The demand for burn care products used in home settings has increased as people try to avoid visiting healthcare facilities. Many patients have also opted for online counseling for their health-related concerns. To cater to this growing demand, key players in the market are launching products to provide online counseling and guidance to patients who cannot visit healthcare facilities for treatment. For example, Healogics, Inc. launched the Healogics Telehealth Program, telehealth for wound care patients, during the COVID-19 crisis. This program allows patients at wound care centers to receive continuous wound care and various treatment options, helping to limit the need for hospitalization or emergency room admission.

The increasing public awareness about proper wound care and the availability of advanced burn care solutions are supporting market growth. Rising disposable income and healthcare expenditure have also increased the demand for better and more efficient burn care treatments. Consumers' inclination to spend more money and opt for new and advanced burn care solutions is another factor driving market growth.

Moreover, telehealth is increasingly being adopted by healthcare professionals to provide remote treatment and educate patients about advanced wound care products. Recently, MobiHealthNews (HIMSS) published some latest insights in December 2021 which revealed a point-of-care wound evaluation platform called VeCare. This platform was developed by researchers from the National University of Singapore and it includes a smart bandage with sensors and a smartphone app for remote wound monitoring. The wearable device is capable of detecting factors related to chronic wounds within 15 minutes, which is driving the growth of the market.

According to the World Health Organization, burn-related deaths account for around 180,000 fatalities each year, leading to a rising demand for traditional wound dressings like gauze and bandages as well as advanced wound care products such as hydrogels, foam dressings, and collagen dressings. As a result, the market for burn wound dressings is expected to grow significantly during the forecast period.

The increasing awareness about advanced burn care treatment is also being propelled by favorable government initiatives such as reimbursement policies, which cover a substantial portion of the treatment cost (70.00-100.00%). Additionally, the presence of government organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and non-profit organizations like the American Burn Association (ABA) further contribute to raising awareness levels. The WHO has been working collaboratively with The International Society for Burn Injuries and other organizations to develop strategies to improve burn care and prevent burn injuries globally.

The awareness levels concerning burn care and treatment are on the rise, thanks to the increasing presence of non-profit organizations such as the British Burn Association and the Canadian Association of Burn Nurses. These organizations aim to provide knowledge on the best treatment and rehabilitation options following a burn injury. Additionally, the demand for skin grafts is a significant factor that is propelling market growth. The trend in burn care and treatment has shifted towards a more comprehensive approach that not only focuses on the recovery from the injury but also on improving the long-term function and form of the healed injury and quality of life.

In the treatment of burn injuries, skin grafts play a vital role and are mostly used on partial and full-thickness burns. These grafts can be of biological or synthetic nature. This trend has resulted in an increased demand for the use of skin grafts and other skin substitutes in the treatment and management of acute burns, and this demand is consistently growing. The market's key players are also focusing on planned initiatives like the launch of new products, and mergers and acquisitions, which are boosting market growth. For example, in June 2021, Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals received FDA approval for its engineered skin product, StrataGraft, which is intended for the treatment of severe thermal burns.

Furthermore, various agencies have issued publications and guidelines regarding burn management, which is an initiative that has significantly helped spread awareness on the subject. This increased awareness is expected to have a positive impact on the adoption of burn care products in the market.

In 2023, the advanced dressing segment is predicted to have the largest revenue share, accounting for 42% of the market. This segment's dominance is due to the extensive application of advanced wound dressings in wound management and the availability of a wide range of products, such as collagen, alginate, hydrocolloid, hydrogel dressings, foam, film dressings, and other advanced dressing products. Furthermore, the development of advanced products such as ConvaTec’s FoamLite foam dressing that can be used for a range of low to heavy exuding wounds is further contributing to the growth of this segment.

Over the forecast period, the biologics segment is expected to witness the fastest growth due to the introduction of new products and extensive research and development in this field. Biologics involve the use of active biological agents and molecules, such as monoterpenes (sulbogin, thymol, and sericin), that possess antioxidant, antimicrobial, and anti-inflammatory properties. Biologic dressings also include skin grafts (allografts, xenografts, autografts, or cadaveric human skin) and tissue-engineered products designed to replace the function and form of skin, either temporarily or permanently. The significant advantage of biologic skin dressings or skin grafts is that the skin is readily available from the patient itself.

The minor burn segment is expected to experience a significant Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 9% during the forecast period. The National Center for Injury Prevention and Control has reported that around 1.3 million individuals in the United States are affected by burn injuries annually. Although traditional products like gauze, tapes, and bandages are commonly used for treating minor burns, the segment is expected to exhibit steady growth over the forecast period. However, advanced dressings are not frequently utilized for treating minor burns. Chronic wounds, which include partial-thickness and full-thickness burns, take a longer time to heal and cover more than 16% of the body.

On the other hand, the partial-thickness burn segment is anticipated to witness the fastest growth over the forecast period. As per the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA), approximately 40,000 people require hospitalization every year due to partial burns. The demand and usage of biologics such as skin grafts and advanced dressings are increasing for treating partial burns, thus, boosting the growth of the segment. Additionally, favorable reimbursement policies in developed countries for patients with partial burns are expected to drive the segment's growth during the forecast period.

In 2023, the thermal burns segment held the largest revenue share of 75.7% due to a high incidence of fire-related burn injuries. According to the American Burn Association (ABA), fire burns are responsible for 41.0% of all burn center admissions. Scalding, caused by hot liquids or gases, is another common cause of burns and often occurs due to exposure to high-temperature tap water during baths or showers, hot cooking oil, steam, and hot drinks. Children are particularly vulnerable to accidental burns.

The chemical burn segment is expected to experience the fastest growth over the forecast period. Chemical burns occur when the skin comes into contact with chemicals or their fumes, including corrosive products, mostly acids. The chemicals or fumes diffuse into the skin and damage the underlying tissue, often without causing any apparent damage to the surface. Chemical burns occur immediately upon contact and prolonged exposure can severely damage human tissues, leading to scarring. Acids damage cells by coagulating them, while bases liquefy cells. Alkalis cause more injury than acids and bases as they react with the lipids within the body.

The others segment is expected to witness the fastest growth and achieve a CAGR of 7.9% over the forecast period. The others segment encompasses home care and ambulatory care. Ambulatory burn care provides a wide range of clinical services to outpatients, and it is critical when patients affected by burns are transported or relocated to hospitals. In the case of partial or full-thickness burns, patients need to be provided with immediate and proper care, which is facilitated by ambulatory services. Government initiatives aimed at improving healthcare expenditure and infrastructure are also contributing to the growth of the segment.

In 2023, North America held the largest share of the burn care market, accounting for approximately 49% of the revenue. The high incidence of burn injuries in the region has contributed to the dominance of North America in the market. According to a report by the American Burn Association, more than 300 children receive emergency treatment for burns in the United States each day, and about two children die each day from burn injuries. Children under the age of 16 account for approximately 29% of all burn center admissions in the US. Moreover, it is estimated that around 500,000 individuals in the US are injured by fire each year. These high rates of burn injuries have resulted in a significant demand for burn care products in the region.

The presence of major market players in North America, who are engaged in launching new products and strategic mergers and acquisitions, is expected to create significant growth opportunities in the region. For instance, in September 2020, MiMedx Group Inc. launched EpiCord Expandable, a placental tissue allograft, which is designed to meet the needs of patients with larger, chronic, and difficult-to-heal wounds. The innovative design of this allograft allows healthcare providers to cover twice the surface area compared to traditional treatments. As a result, the market in North America is anticipated to grow in the future.

The Asia Pacific market is expected to experience the fastest Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 9.4% over the forecast period. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the incidence of burn injuries requiring immediate medical attention is about 20 times higher in the Western Pacific Region compared to the Americas. Each year, approximately 50,000 burn-related hospital admissions are recorded in Australia, with young children being particularly vulnerable. Scald burns (65%) and flame burns (20%) are the most prevalent burn-related injuries among children aged four and below. Thus, an increase in the incidence of burn injuries is a significant factor driving market growth in this region.

Furthermore, the market growth in this region is expected to be fueled by increasing Research and Development (R&D) activities by key market players for the introduction of innovative products over the forecast period. For instance, researchers at the University of South Australia are developing stimuli-responsive dressings that can securely reduce infection and stimulate healing. The team has developed an advanced silver nanoparticle hydrogel-coated dressing that may revolutionize burns treatments in children. Hence, the above-mentioned factors are anticipated to drive the market in the Asia Pacific region.

The burn care market has witnessed several recent developments, including the introduction of innovative products and strategic initiatives by key players. One such development is the growing demand for advanced dressing solutions in the market, owing to their extensive application in wound management. Advanced wound dressings such as collagen, alginate, hydrocolloid, hydrogel, foam, and film dressings have gained popularity due to their effectiveness in managing wounds.

Another recent development in the burn care market is the increasing adoption of telehealth and online counseling for patients with burn injuries. With the pandemic forcing people to avoid visiting healthcare facilities, the demand for burn care products used in home settings has increased significantly. To cater to this demand, key players in the market are launching products that provide online counseling and guidance to patients who cannot visit healthcare facilities for treatment.

In addition, the biologics segment is witnessing the fastest growth in the burn care market due to the introduction of new products and extensive R&D in this field. Biologics involve the application of active biological agents and molecules, such as monoterpenes that are antioxidants, antimicrobials, and anti-inflammatory in nature. Biologic dressings also include skin grafts and tissue-engineered products designed to replace the function and form of skin, either temporarily or permanently.

Dominating Companies in Burn Care Market

• 3M
• Acelity L.P. Inc.
• B BRAUN MELSUNGEN AG
• Cardinal Health
• Coloplast A/S
• Convatec Healthcare B
• DeRoyal Industries, Inc.
• ESSITY AB (BSN MEDICAL GMBH)
• Hollister, Inc.
• Integra LifeSciences Corporation (DERMA SCIENCES)
• INVESTOR AB (MÖLNLYCKE HEALTHCARE AB)
• Johnson & Johnson
• MEDLINE INDUSTRIES, INC.
• MEDTRONIC PLC. (COVIDIEN)
• Smith & Nephew PLC

Recent Developments in Burn Care Market

Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals: In 2021, Mallinckrodt Pharmaceuticals received FDA approval for its engineered skin product, StrataGraft, for the treatment of serious thermal burns. The product was developed in partnership with the US Department of Health and Human Services' Biomedical Advanced Research and Development Authority (BARDA).

Avita Medical: In 2018, Avita Medical, a regenerative medicine company, announced its acquisition of the US-based company, Regenerative Tissue Engineering (RTE). The acquisition allowed Avita to expand its portfolio of regenerative products for the treatment of burns and other wounds.

Vericel Corporation: In 2019, Vericel Corporation, a leader in advanced cell therapies for the sports medicine and severe burn care markets, announced its acquisition of the cell therapy company, Fibrocell Science. The acquisition allowed Vericel to expand its pipeline of advanced cell therapies for the treatment of burns and other skin disorders.

3M: In 2020, 3M, a global science and technology company, announced its acquisition of Acelity Inc. and its KCI subsidiaries. Acelity is a leading provider of advanced wound care and specialty surgical products, including products for the treatment of burns.

Smith & Nephew: In 2020, Smith & Nephew, a medical technology company, announced its acquisition of Osiris Therapeutics, a company specializing in regenerative medicine products for wound care, including products for the treatment of burns. The acquisition allowed Smith & Nephew to expand its portfolio of advanced wound care products.

PolyNovo: In 2021, PolyNovo, a regenerative medicine company, announced a partnership with Integra LifeSciences, a leading medical technology company. The partnership focused on the commercialization of PolyNovo's NovoSorb BTM, a synthetic polymer scaffold for the treatment of burns and other wounds.

Vericel Corporation: In 2021, Vericel Corporation announced a partnership with Burn and Reconstructive Centers of America (BRCA), a network of burn centers in the US. The partnership focused on the use of Vericel's advanced cell therapies for the treatment of burn injuries, including the use of Epicel, a product developed by Vericel for the treatment of severe burns.

In conclusion, burn care is an essential aspect of the treatment and management of burns. The severity of burns can vary, and the appropriate treatment depends on the type and extent of the burn. Proper burn care can help reduce pain, prevent infection, promote faster healing, and restore function. It is vital to seek medical attention for all burns and to follow the recommended treatment plan for the best possible outcome.