JANUARY 22--The intense pace of innovations in three-dimensional (3-D) imaging technologies used with computed tomography (CT), magnetic resonance, angiography, and ultrasound modalities epitomize the growth of the US 3-D imaging market. New analysis from Frost & Sullivan (San Jose, CA; www.healthcarefrost.com), reveals that this market generated revenues worth $397.6 million in 2002 and is likely to reach $1.15 billion in 2009.
Latest multislice CT scanners and transducer technology that can generate a plethora of images and faster replacement cycle are key drivers for the sale of 3-D workstations as well as 3-D software applications with real time volume and spatial rendering capabilities. According to Frost & Sullivan research analyst Jim Clayton, "Products that provide clinical value for complex applications such as virtual colonoscopy and calcium scoring, as well as ultrasound techniques, are facilitaing market adoption and may lead to more appropriate reimbursement for 3-D imaging procedures."
The demand for multimodality workstations is on the rise as radiologists, already short in number, face additional workload due to the continuous increase in aging population with health disorders. The willingness of patients to pay out-of-pocket, despite the lack of insurance, is enabling physicians to become proficient at performing 3-D imaging procedures.
Manufacturers are offering integrated and bundled solutions for the diverse requirements of hospitals and imaging centers. New products in development that include computer-aided detection with the latest 3-D workstations and software applications are likely to drive the market for these products. The development of feature rich 3-D workstations and software applications combined with innovations in peripheral markets and special financial arrangements will likely increase the affordability of these products by lowering the cost of ownership.
Clayton concludes, "Companies with extensive focus on research, product-differentiation strategies, and clinically proven solutions that facilitate construction of accurate current procedural terminology codes will dominate the market. Advanced applications such as 'baby face' imaging, echocardiography, and contrast imaging that require real-time 3-D ultrasound components are likely to fortify the future market."
