Cardiac Imaging Modalities Market Demographics Show Growth Potential

Clinical and cost benefits are triggering the penetration of imaging modalities in cardiac applications. Whereas demographic data are supporting market growth, cardiac imaging device manufacturers will have to focus on novel, patient-friendly products that promote greater safety and easier operability, according to recent market research.

New analysis from Frost & Sullivan (Mountain View, CA, USA), revealed that there has been a change in the adoption pattern for imaging modalities. With the markets in North America and Europe mostly saturated, the largest revenue share is now generated by emerging economies such as China, India, Brazil, and Russia. The research covers four diagnostic modalities for cardiac applications: cardiac computed tomography (CT), cardiovascular magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), echocardiography, and interventional cardiology.

Demographics are playing a major role in the market. An aging population has been the foremost driver in the healthcare market. The rising incidence of cardiovascular diseases is expanding the patient pool, while resulting in rising demand for software and equipment that enable better diagnoses. This is emphasizing the need for technologically advanced medical imaging technology. However, the lack of agreement on which imaging modality is most appropriate for a particular cardiac ailment has affected uptake levels.

“All the modalities are here to stay,” noted Frost & Sullivan senior research analyst Akanksha Joshi. “What is less clear is which of these modalities is most appropriate for which patients and in which clinical scenarios in terms of diagnostic accuracy and, even more importantly, in terms of patient outcome and cost-effectiveness.”

During product development and marketing, therefore, manufacturers need to consider the fact that the choice of modality used is based on the preference of the cardiologist or radiologist. Moreover, they need to account for preference patterns for a particular modality showing regional variations.

The adoption of sophisticated technology is slower in the cardiology space, compared to other segments. This is due in part because of the lack of skilled healthcare professionals who can effectively use the new devices. “It is therefore critical for manufacturers to provide innovative, accurate, reliable, and patient-friendly equipment,” advised Ms. Joshi. “Such endeavors will assuage the apprehensions of the medical community in using new technology.”

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