European Markets for Flat-panel Detector for Medical Imaging Modalities

This Frost & Sullivan research service titled European Markets for Flat-panel Detector for Medical Imaging Modalities provides an overview of market dynamics and revenues, along with a complete analysis of key market drivers, restraints and trends faced in the United Kingdom, Germany, France, Italy, Benelux, Spain and Scandinavia. In this research, Frost & Sullivan's expert analysts thoroughly examine the following markets: radiology, mammography and computer tomography. This research also examines technology trends, end-product users and distribution networks.

FPDs for Radiology and Mammography Modalities Exhibit Growth Potential

The present digitisation trend in Europe is promoting growth in the market for flat-panel detectors (FPDs). Superior image quality, low radiation exposure and enhanced workflow are some of the advantages of FPD-based imaging systems. The introduction of picture archiving and communication systems (PACS) for picture archival systems and the adoption of healthcare IT solutions have increased the demand for the FPD-based systems in hospitals. The market is segmented according to the modality in which FPDs are used - radiology modalities, mammography modalities and computed tomography (CT) scanners - with varying growth patterns evident in each of these segments. "The market for FPDs in Europe is expanding," notes the analyst of this research. "With the use of FPDs in advanced medical imaging modalities such as digital x-rays, mammography and FPD-based CT scanners, high-resolution x-ray images, which yield better clinical information, can be obtained."

Over the last few years, there has been a steady increase in the number of cardiac and coronary and musculoskeletal-related procedures being performed on adults as well as children. As a result, the market for interventional radiology (IR) and radiology has been exhibiting moderate growth. The growth in these segments has boosted the growth rate of the FPD market, as they are being used in radiology modalities for their superior imaging quality and better diagnostic information. With one in every ten women in Europe likely to develop breast cancer at some point in their life, the digital mammography market will maintain steady growth. This, in turn, will support the FPD market in this segment in registering moderate growth in the future. The CT market segment related to the FPD is waiting to undergo a sea change with the invention of the c-arm flat-panel detectors CT scanners. Currently, the FPD-CT scanners have limited clinical application such as the detection of bone density. Many other aspects including radiation dose and other technical aspects need to be investigated. It will take a few more years before penetration into almost all clinical applications can be achieved. Until then, market scope remains limited.

High Modality Prices are a Cause for Concern

Two major challenges threaten to retard overall market growth. First is the lack of reimbursement for detectors. Second, FPD is a sophisticated imaging technology and is associated with high prices. "Industry participants feel that the prices of FPDs are quite high when compared to the medical imaging modalities into which they are incorporated," explains the analyst. "Over the last couple of years prices have remained steady and market participants have indicated that if prices do not fall, then the FPD market may face competition from cheaper technology."

Price stability presents a particular challenge to tier-2 and tier-3 companies. The average selling price of FPDs has remained quite stable during the past few years without much drop in their levels. This issue should be tackled through efforts to offer more competitive prices if market expansion is to be sustained.