In 2024, the global artificial lung market stood at USD 2.51 billion. One year later, it is estimated to grow to USD 2.78 billion, with projections pointing toward a remarkable USD 7.05 billion by 2034. This impressive growth, reflected in a CAGR of 10.84% from 2025 to 2034, paints a clear picture: the artificial lung industry is not only expanding—it’s transforming the landscape of respiratory care.
This case study explores the key drivers, market trends, major players, technological innovations, and regional dynamics that define this vital market.
The Patient Crisis Driving Demand
Surging Cases of Respiratory Illness
Behind the market’s momentum is a stark global reality: chronic respiratory diseases like COPD, pulmonary fibrosis, and ARDS are on the rise. With 600 million people expected to be affected by COPD globally by 2050, the need for effective lung support systems has become more critical than ever.
In the U.S. alone:
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16 million individuals live with COPD (many undiagnosed).
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COPD was the 6th leading cause of death in 2023.
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The economic burden exceeds $24 billion annually.
Canada is also under pressure. The Lung Health Foundation estimates that COPD will cost the country over $10 billion by 2030, risking the collapse of its healthcare infrastructure.
Market Leaders & Technological Breakthroughs
Case in Focus: Hemovent & MOBYBOX®
In May 2024, Hemovent launched a new-generation ECMO system—MOBYBOX®. What makes it a game-changer? A novel blood pump drive technology that ensures compactness, simplicity, and portability. Designed for everything from in-hospital use to mobile rescue operations, the system is poised to extend life-saving capabilities to broader and more remote settings.
Another Breakthrough: Jiangsu Hengrui Pharmaceuticals
In January 2025, China’s National Medical Products Administration approved a locally-developed ECMO system by Jiangsu Hengrui Pharmaceuticals—marking a major leap for domestic innovation in critical care technology.
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Segmental Landscape: Who’s Leading What?
Product Type Insights
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ECMO Systems dominate the market (67% share in 2024), especially in ICUs for critical respiratory and cardiac failure.
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Portable/Implantable Lungs are the fastest-growing segment. Future-forward designs aim for long-term implantation and mobility, enhancing quality of life and offering alternatives to transplantation.
Application Areas
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ARDS held the largest market share in 2024 (41%), given its prevalence during COVID-19 and among ICU patients.
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Lung Transplantation Support is the fastest-growing segment, highlighting the shift toward long-term, advanced care options.
End-User Breakdown
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Hospitals & ICUs led with 59% of the demand.
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Research Institutions & Transplant Centers are emerging as growth hubs, driven by clinical trials and R&D in regenerative medicine.
Technology Frontiers
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Membrane-based oxygenation remains standard but wearable artificial lung devices are projected to be the fastest-growing, thanks to innovations in miniaturization and material science.
The Role of Artificial Intelligence (AI)
AI has quietly become the backbone of innovation in artificial lungs:
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Enables precise modeling of blood flow and gas exchange.
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Enhances real-time system automation for optimal performance.
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Improves predictive diagnostics and device customization, particularly for wearable lungs.
AI is not just optimizing device functionality—it’s reimagining how we deliver care.
Regional Insights: Who’s Leading the Charge?
North America (45% Market Share in 2024)
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High rates of smoking, pollution, and lifestyle diseases like obesity and diabetes.
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Presence of major market players and advanced ICU infrastructure.
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Aggressive adoption of ECMO for ARDS and COVID-related complications.
Asia Pacific: Fastest Growing Region
Government-driven healthcare reforms, strong biotechnological R&D, and increased investments in China, India, and Japan are accelerating market growth. Public-private partnerships are helping local startups gain traction and scale their innovations.
Case in Point: In June 2024, Renown Health in the U.S. launched its first ECMO program backed by a $3.5 million Helmsley Charitable Trust grant, reinforcing the critical role of funding in market penetration.
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Challenges in Focus: Limitations in Longevity
A Key Restraint: Short-Term Usage
Despite the surge in adoption, artificial lungs face hurdles:
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Current systems lack long-term biocompatibility.
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Issues like clot formation, protein deposition, and membrane fouling limit their operational lifespan.
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Implantable lungs remain in early experimental stages.
Until these issues are resolved, most artificial lungs will remain short-term, bridge-to-transplant solutions rather than permanent replacements.
Opportunities on the Horizon
The next frontier in artificial lungs lies in bioengineered organs and regenerative medicine. The potential to grow lungs that integrate with patient biology could redefine transplantation.
Moreover, increasing investments in healthcare infrastructure—especially in emerging economies—are opening the door for wider access to these advanced technologies.
Recent Developments Worth Watching
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May 2025: Manipal Hospital Vijayawada launched ECMO services, enhancing critical care delivery in India.
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March 2025: VQ Biomedical, a spinout from Duke University, secured $5 million in funding to develop a minimally invasive lung device for severe lung injuries.
Source : https://www.towardshealthcare.com/insights/artificial-lung-market-sizing
