Increasing Demand for POCUS Tests Driving Global Handheld Ultrasound Devices Market

By MedImaging International staff writers
Posted on 10 Apr 2023

Image: The global handheld ultrasound devices market is expected to grow at a CAGR of 12.2% over 2019-2030 (Photo courtesy of Freepik)

Handheld ultrasound devices are compact, portable alternatives to cart-based devices, which are especially useful during complex medical procedures like abdominal and heart surgeries. These devices generate high-quality 2D, 3D, and 4D diagnostic images for various medical applications, including cancer, cardiac, echo, vascular, and obstetric ultrasonography. They are frequently used in Point-of-Care (PoC) settings for patients with traumatic injuries or abdominal pain due to gallbladder blockage or gallstones. Handheld ultrasound adoption is growing rapidly because it offers immediate, accurate diagnostic imaging without sacrificing precision.

The global market for handheld ultrasound devices was valued at over USD 2 billion in 2021 and is projected to grow at a CAGR of 12.2% during the 2019-30 forecast period, driven by the increasing prevalence of chronic diseases among the aging population and the rising number of patients with pulmonary artery-related disorders. These are the latest findings of Research and Markets (Dublin, Ireland), a leading source for international market research reports and market data.

Medical professionals are increasingly using handheld ultrasound devices for POCUS, enabling quick patient-care decisions in emergency medical situations. The compact size and high-quality image production of these devices have led to greater adoption by mobile medical units for rapid results. The demand for handheld ultrasound devices is rising, particularly for cancer diagnosis, as cancer was responsible for nearly one in six deaths globally in 2020. Additionally, many rural and urban medical facilities lack necessary diagnostic testing resources, making handheld ultrasound devices a strategic solution for bridging the gap in these situations. The growing elderly population and demand for geriatric medicines are also key drivers of the handheld ultrasound market, along with the increasing number of doctors and general practitioners engaging in innovative diagnosis and treatment strategies.

Despite the many advantages of handheld ultrasound devices, high product costs present a significant challenge for market growth. With the average price of a wireless handheld ultrasound device starting at USD 10,000, the product and maintenance costs of these devices can affect low-income users. Moreover, the cost of components like semiconductors and other sensors in handheld ultrasound devices can fluctuate, further impacting product costs. Another major challenge is the lack of adequate specialist knowledge, as many physicians and healthcare technicians are not properly trained to operate ultrasound devices with ease and precision.

Based on device type, the wired handheld ultrasound devices segment held the largest revenue share in 2021 due to their widespread use in hospitals and clinics, offering greater flexibility in clinical settings and POC ultrasound testing. The wireless handheld devices segment also maintained its revenue share in the handheld ultrasound devices market in 2021, with medical professionals using these devices for enhanced flexibility and accuracy. In terms of application, the abdominal screening segment held the largest revenue share in 2021, while the bladder screening segment also maintained its revenue share. Based on end-use, hospitals generated significant demand for handheld ultrasound devices due to the rising prevalence of chronic diseases like cancer, stroke, kidney disease, lung cancer, and diabetes.

Geographically, North America dominated the global handheld ultrasound devices market with the largest revenue share, while Asia Pacific and Europe also maintained their revenue shares in the market. The market growth in these regions is being driven by factors such as the increasing patient population, rising prevalence of chronic diseases, demand for clinical trials, and the adoption of new technologies for patient care and treatment.

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