MRG Predicts Slow Growth of X-Ray Market

Medtech market intelligence provider Millennium Research Group (MRG) finds that the U.S. market for X-ray systems—though saturated—may actually grow slowly to reach a value of $2.8 billion by 2016. 

MRG reports the continued trend toward minimally invasive surgical procedures will lead to increased demand for both diagnostic and interventional X-ray systems, affecting every segment of the X-ray market through 2016. This will lead to particularly high growth in the hybrid operating room (OR) segment.

Hybrid ORs are multi-procedural rooms that function as both a regular OR as well as an interventional suite, consolidating services and procedures. MRG’s report, titled “U.S. Markets for X-Ray Systems 2012,” predicts that demand for these systems will be driven by the increasing prevalence of transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) procedures and by a desire to increase the efficiency of existing procedures.The number of system sales will increase at nearly 20 percent annually through 2016, the report predicts. The X-ray systems purchased for hybrid ORs also tend to be more capable and expensive, being equipped with larger detectors, 3-dimensional imaging, dose management packages and large displays.

Digital systems will continue to replace analog systems in all market segments. The higher resolution of digital images allows for either smaller radiation doses or improved object detection, depending on diagnostic needs. Digital imaging also allows for improved workflow and throughput, enabling facilities to comply with electronic medical records requirements. Digital systems are higher-priced than their analog predecessors, but also substantially more capable. The current installed base of analog and computed radiography systems will be replaced by a significantly smaller number of digital systems, shrinking overall revenues.

“Digitization will drive high growth in mobile radiography,” said MRG Analyst Felix Lam. “These portable units are used for patients who cannot be moved to the radiography room. Digital systems are more maneuverable while offering higher power, allowing them to obtain higher-quality images and diagnose larger patients. The mobile radiography system market will grow at an average rate of over 10 percent per year through 2016, even as sales of analog systems decline.”

Millennium Research Group is a Decision Resources Group company based in Toronto, Ontario, Canada.

X-ray image of male left shoulder courtesy of hanskellner.com.