Impact of Emerging Medical Imaging Technologies in Europe

Abstract

Research Overview

High Overall Implementation Costs Pose a Hurdle for Greater Adoption of Imaging Technologies in Europe

The huge investments made in research and development by modality and technological vendors in Europe, as well as the usage of superior quality components have led to an increase in the overall costs of medical equipment. This phenomenon of growing costs has been more pronounced in the case of medical imaging solutions such as 3D/4D or computer aided design (CAD), where the inputs to these systems need to be digital, and hence it warrants additional expenditure in the form of digitisers and readers. Thus, high initial implementation and operational investments -- as in the case of picture archiving and communications (PACS) -- are posing hurdles in the adoption of imaging technologies by hospitals across Europe.

This Frost & Sullivan research service studies the impact of the developing medical imaging technologies in the future of radiology in Europe. It segments the market into -- full field digital mammography (FFDM), CAD, 3D/4D imaging, PACS, non-invasive imaging and fusion imaging. This information is valuable to both large and small participants that seek to position themselves for maximum return on investment.

Better Clinical Approach and Workflow Efficiency Likely to Lead to More Effective Diagnosis

Across Europe there has been an increasing trend of implementation of novel technologies and mass procurement of high-end diagnostic equipment for better efficiency and workflow of the radiology suite. Healthcare providers incessantly seek solutions to reduce examination time, which eventually leads to lesser waiting time and considerable improvement in detection capabilities. Moreover, industry participants are developing new techniques for enhanced imaging applications.

"For achieving greater penetration of the new technologies it is highly imperative to improve the awareness among the healthcare providers, even in the small imaging centres," points out the analyst of this research service. "While some of the healthcare establishments are aware of these technological breakthroughs, there is less clarity regarding their usage with the existing hardware and incorporation into their current systems."