New models for fluoroscopy imaging systems add value
There is a growing push to move fully into the digital age with flat panel detector (FPD) based systems.
Globally, the growth of the fluoroscopy market with medical imaging is projected to reach upward of $2 billion by 2018. In 2013 it was $1.7 billion.
Within this market, there is a growing push to move fully into the digital age with flat panel detector (FPD) based systems.
Currently, buyers have a choice between image intensifier (II) or FPD based technology for Radiography/Fluoroscopy (R/F) systems. MD Buyline has seen recent purchasing trends for R/F systems that indicate hospitals are moving away from II based systems and looking to FPD based units as their budgets allow. In addition, some major equipment vendors have turned their focus on designing and manufacturing only detector-based R/F systems within their product portfolios.
Although there is markedly higher investment associated with the latest FPD systems, digital fluoroscopy offers better penetration of anatomy and from a technical perspective, there is less geometric distortion and glare as well as less degradation of image quality that is associated with flare or veiling. FPD also offer higher image quality, reduction in dose and a smaller system footprint.
Dynamic detector based systems are considered less bulky than II systems. This allows for additional space within the system for patient movement during fluoroscopy exams which typically requires imaging to be done in several patient positions. This is an important factor when considering the investment into the higher end R/F systems as fewer patients will have the potential to be turned away due to size.
Medical imaging has become a vital component of the Bariatric Surgery Market considering the number of Lap Band and other weight loss surgeries that are performed in hospitals every year with fluoroscopy procedures being an essential part of this procedure and follow-up care.
Purchasers looking to invest in FPD based R/F systems have been justifying the significantly higher purchase price by selecting system configurations that enable the room to be used in a dual purpose capacity for general X-ray exams long after the routine fluoro studies have been completed for the day.
II based systems are still considered a viable technology avenue and offer a lower investment for those facilities that cannot justify the extra cost associated with flat panel technology. In addition, there is a better understanding and track record established with II technology in terms of useful life span of equipment, repair cost averages and overall reliability compared to FPD-based units.
Despite being on the market for multiple years, the same kind of service history for dynamic detectors continues to evolve and will eventually be able to disclose some consistent trends over an extended period of time.
Image Intensifier-Based System Pricing
| Low | High | Average |
|---|---|---|
| $250,204 | $621,347 | $395,085.90 |
Service System Support Prices (if applicable)
| Low | High | Average |
|---|---|---|
| $16,391 | $45,844 | $26,830 |
Dynamic Detector-Based System Pricing
| Low | High | Average |
|---|---|---|
| $337,398 | $735,956 | $535,960.60 |
Service System Support Prices (if applicable)
| Low | High | Average |
|---|---|---|
| $22,402 | $56,512 | $40,847 |
Source: MD Buyline
Please note these numbers have been adjusted to exclude special deals, outliers and unique circumstances.
Lori Webb is a clinical analyst with MD Buyline.
