Ultrasound Technology Designed to Enhance Diagnostics in Europe

Radiation standards are becoming increasingly strict in European hospitals. Ultrasound, however, has an advantage over radioactive applications with regard to patient safety.

Ultrasound is nonradioactive, and manufacturers are trying to improve its flexibility in both primary and secondary diagnosis. Moreover, several medical research universities are gathering data on individual organ physiology and function, paving the way for therapeutic ultrasound. Smaller companies are also moving into developing organ-specific therapeutic ultrasound solutions due to their non-invasive treatment.

New market research from Frost & Sullivan (Palo Alto, CA, USA), an international medical consultancy company, revealed that the market earned revenues of US$371.0 million in 2008, and estimates this to reach $438.0 million in 2015. The technologies covered in this research service are three-dimensional (3D) and four-dimensional (4D) imaging, contrast media, and elastography.

"Although the ultrasound market in Europe is saturated and is a replacement market, stable growth is projected in the therapeutic and contrast-enhanced ultrasound segment,” says Frost & Sullivan research analyst Shriram Shanmugham. "While clinical research is becoming more intensive, the research facilities and ultrasound companies are forming associations to accelerate its development.”

Therapeutic ultrasound procedures are not only nonradioactive but also noninvasive, and have a faster patient recovery time. However, the economic downturn has forced many hospitals to slash costs by either delaying their investments in the purchase of medical equipment or opting for used and refurbished systems. Any savings are used to maintain hospital productivity. "Purchasing used and refurbished systems are a priority for hospitals that have budgetary constraints for new medical equipments,” explained Mr. Shanmugham. "Additionally, some hospitals are postponing their equipment purchase to the next fiscal year, further impeding the purchase of new equipment.”

Ultrasound manufacturers should emphasize the significance of purchasing latest equipment. They should provide a concise portfolio of the transitions expected with ultrasound technology and convince hospitals to consider long-term investments, according to Frost & Sullivan analysts.

"Enhancing customer interaction will be the key for manufacturers, especially now, when the economy is in a slump,” concluded Mr. Shanmugham. "Manufacturers should promote specialized programs that accentuate customer involvement, ensuring customer loyalty in the long-term.”

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