X-Ray and Digital X-Ray Sector Nears USD 8 Billion in 2014

The market for both traditional and digital X-ray systems is estimated to reach USD 7.9 billion in 2014, according to a recent report from an international market research company. The healthcare market research publisher noted that upgrades of existing equipment and the rising incidence of disease are fueling the market.

According to a new report published by Kalorama Information (New York, NY, USA), there are more than 240 million X-ray procedures performed yearly at hospitals and in physicians’ offices in the US. Growing incidence of chronic disease is spurring the market. Kalorama reported that of all, the chest X-ray is performed most often, followed by abdomen, extremity and spinal scans. Kalorama did not include mammography or computed tomography (CT) in this market estimate, as these are separate systems that use X-ray technology.

“Digital X-ray market is driven by growing incidences of diseases where X-ray is useful, and a need for higher patient throughput,” said Joe Constance, Kalorama analyst and author for the report.

Analog film systems, which had a large market share until the mid-2000s, continue to be replaced by computed radiography (CR) and digital radiography. These systems offer such advantages as low dosage, improved image quality, enhanced image storage, and immediate image analysis. The transition to picture archiving and communication system (PACS), other imaging modalities that lend themselves to PACS and networks, and the evolution of telemedicine has facilitated the transition from film-based modalities. Hospitals and imaging centers are using the latest technology to optimize patient services, becoming more patient-friendly Image detectors technologies, including flat panel detectors, are being used to retrofit the existing film X-ray systems into CR and DR.

“Retrofitting is helping to drive the digital portion of the market,” Mr. Constance said. “And the need to store images digitally.”

Similar to the United States, the digital X-ray market segment has overtaken film X-ray systems in terms of system revenue. Much digital growth has been fueled by a transition by many to the less expensive CR—the technology of making X-ray images with conventional X-ray equipment but in which the images are captured on reusable photostimulable phosphor plates, instead of single-use X-ray film. These CR systems are less expensive than direct radiography systems.

Some markets will weaken within the sector. The market for medical X-ray film is continuing to decline. It is expected to be off about 4% annually worldwide, although the rate of decline will be greater in developed nations where digital technology has made greater inroads. The use of film will not be completely eliminated by digital technology. There are some specialties, such as orthopedics, that like to work with film. Film also is used in low-volume and some mobile applications. And there are many underdeveloped countries in which institutions do not have the finances needed to convert to digital.

Kalorama Information, a division of MarketResearch.com, supplies independent medical market research in diagnostics, biotech, pharmaceuticals, medical devices and healthcare; as well as custom research services.

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