Increasing cardiac disorders in Europe driving demand for diagnostic
imaging systems
5 February 2006
The sharp increase in the incidence of cardiovascular disorders and
mortalities in Europe, the consequent need for early detection as well as
cardiac interventional procedures has created enhanced scope for the uptake
of cardiac catheterisation imaging systems. Initiatives by healthcare
authorities to revamp cardiac catheterisation labs are also likely to
encourage the replacement of analog image intensifier systems with
flat-panel digital ones, thereby stimulating market growth.
The growing awareness of cardiovascular disorders (CVD) has led to a rise
in the number of diagnostic procedures, thereby resulting in a spurt in
interventional cardiac catheterisation procedures. A growing focus on
efficient and non-invasive techniques of diagnostic cardiology such as
computed tomography angiography (CTA) and magnetic resonance angiography
(MRA) has also resulted in the augmented use of cardiovascular X-rays in
catheterisation procedures.
Accordingly, revenues in the European cardiac catheterisation imaging
systems market are anticipated to reach $196.6 million by 2009 from an
estimated $144.1 million in 2004. The single plane cardiovascular imaging
systems segment will continue dominating the overall market. At the same
time, the biplane systems segment is also likely to boost market revenues.
However, while digital flat panel systems will enhance the efficiency of
cardiac catheterisation labs in providing high-quality care and reducing
waiting lists, their price will impose restraints on market growth. "The
acceptance of digital systems has been hampered by the significant price
difference that exists between analog and digital systems", explained Ms.
Badrinarayanan, Industry Analyst at Frost & Sullivan. "In addition, the
total market has been affected by constant price erosion."
Despite the decline in prices, cardiac catheterisation imaging systems
still remain unaffordable to many healthcare institutions and imaging
centres. Thus, justifying equipment price (particularly for new technology
equipment) will become essential to prevent healthcare institutions from
opting for refurbished equipment.
Presently, countries such as the United Kingdom are offering cardiac
catheterisation procedures in out-patient facilities (mobile imaging
facilities) due to long waiting lists. In keeping with this trend, industry
stakeholders will gain by focussing on the marketing, development and
promotion of such facilities.
Currently, the market has almost reached saturation with limited
equipment being added each year at new sites. Hence, long-term growth
potential will depend on efforts to innovate new, pioneering and
cost-effective technologies to maintain the product cycle.
"Despite the market being mature, all market participants are
increasingly investing in new technologies to revitalise the market", said
Ms. Badrinarayanan. "Hence, the time-to-market factor will be crucial in
planning the introduction of any new technology."
Ensuring the compatibility of cardiac imaging equipment with existing IT
solutions in hospitals will also prove vital for easy integration. As a
result, sustaining product demand will depend on including a digital
workflow to optimise the cardiology data management system (CDMS).
Forging new partnerships to bundle their products and offer customers
better products and services from the same company will also be advantageous
to manufacturers. For instance, by striking alliances with smaller companies
that manufacture systems such as electrophysiology (EP) recorders, original
equipment manufacturers (OEMs) can offer customers a package of both the
products, to gain a competitive edge in the market.
Source: Frost & Sullivan
Further information:
http://healthcare.frost.com
Email: Radhika Menon Theodore
rmtheodore@frost.com
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