Radiology: Ultrasound Equipment
Since its introduction in the early 1950s, medical ultrasound – a safe, noninvasive and non-ionizing imaging modality – has maintained a major share of the medical imaging market.
Thu Jan 05 2012
Since its introduction in the early 1950s, medical ultrasound – a safe, noninvasive and non-ionizing imaging modality – has maintained a major share of the medical imaging market. Advancement in ultrasound technology, such as the introduction of 3D and 4D systems, has enhanced image quality and, in turn, helped improve clinical outcomes. Other current trends include the miniaturization of ultrasound devices, the incorporation of system electronics into ultrasound technology and the development of portable ultrasound equipment. Newer applications, such as the use of ultrasound in administering emergency medicine, are also helping drive demand for the technology.
The global ultrasound systems market was worth $3.9 billion in 2010, according to GlobalData. The market researcher predicts the global ultrasound systems market will grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.3 percent through 2017. The popularity of global color Doppler ultrasound systems will drive that growth, according to the GlobalData report “Ultrasound Systems – Global Pipeline Analysis, Competitive Landscape and Market Forecasts to 2017.” The report cites technological advancements and the use of ultrasound systems in emerging applications, such as breast imaging, vascular imaging, and image-guided interventional procedures as other drivers of growth.
GE Healthcare leads the ultrasound systems market, with a 24 percent share, followed by Philips Healthcare (19 percent) and Siemens Healthcare (12 percent), according to the report. Other players include Toshiba, Hitachi, ESAOTE and SonoSite. To remain competitive, companies will continue to innovate, including incorporating technological advancements and investing in product diversity, specifically by developing products for particular applications.
Despite accelerating technical innovation due to vigorous research and development, the U.S. market for ultrasound imaging has largely reached maturity. The U.S. market now appears to be rapidly evolving into either a commodity market or a replacement market, depending on the market segment. In the maturing radiology and obstetrics/gynecology segments, the opportunity consists largely of replacing high-end units with newer ones, while in emergency medicine and anesthesia, the opportunities lie in selling large numbers of portable, lower cost systems.