In-Depth | Endoscopic Medical Device Industry Market Analysis Report (Flexible Endoscope)

The size of the global flexible endoscope market will be US$8.95 billion in 2023, and is expected to reach US$9.7 billion by 2024. In the next few years, the global flexible endoscope market will continue to maintain strong growth, and the market size will reach 12.94 billion by 2028. USD, with a compound annual growth rate of 6.86%. Market growth during this forecast period is mainly driven by factors such as personalized medicine, telemedicine services, patient education and awareness, and reimbursement policies. Key future trends include the integration of artificial intelligence, capsule endoscopy, three-dimensional imaging technology, and endoscopic applications in pediatric care.

There is an increasing preference for minimally invasive procedures such as proctoscopy, gastroscopy, and cystoscopy, primarily because these procedures have smaller incisions, less pain, faster recovery times, and virtually no complications. risks, thereby driving the compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of the flexible endoscope market. Minimally invasive surgery is favored because it is more cost-effective and provides a higher quality of life. With the widespread use of minimally invasive surgical procedures, the demand for various endoscopes and endoscopic equipment is increasing, especially in surgical interventions such as cystoscopy, bronchoscopy, arthroscopy, and laparoscopy. The shift to minimally invasive surgery over traditional surgery can be attributed to a variety of factors, including cost-effectiveness, improved patient satisfaction, shorter hospital stays, and fewer postoperative problems. The growing popularity of minimally invasive surgery (MIS) has increased the use of endoscopy for diagnostic and therapeutic purposes.

Factors driving the industry also include the increasing prevalence of chronic diseases that affect the body's internal systems; the advantages of flexible endoscopes over other devices; and growing awareness of the importance of early detection of these diseases. These instruments are used to diagnose inflammatory bowel disease (IBD), stomach and colon cancer, respiratory infections and tumors, among others. Therefore, the rising prevalence of these diseases has increased the demand for these flexible devices. For example, according to information released by the American Cancer Society, in 2022, there will be approximately 26,380 cases of gastric cancer (15,900 cases in men and 10,480 cases in women), 44,850 new cases of rectal cancer, and 106,180 new cases of colon cancer in the United States.Rising number of obese patients, rising public awareness about the technology, and government support are driving revenue growth in the flexible endoscope market. For example, in April 2022, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) changed its Safety Communications and reiterated its recommendation that medical facilities and endoscopy facilities use only fully disposable or semi-disposable flexible endoscopes.

Market Segmentation Analysis by product Based on product type, the flexible endoscope market segments include fiberscopes and video endoscopes.

The fiberscope segment dominates the global market, accounting for 62% of the total market revenue (approximately $5.8 billion), owing to the growing demand for minimally invasive procedures that reduce patient trauma, recovery time, and hospital stay. A fiberscope is a flexible endoscope that transmits images through fiber optic technology. They are widely used in the medical field for non-invasive diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. Furthermore, advancements in fiber optic technology have improved image quality and diagnostic accuracy, driving market demand for fiberoptic endoscopes.Another factor driving growth in the category is the rising incidence of gastrointestinal diseases and cancer globally. Colorectal cancer is the third most commonly diagnosed disease worldwide, accounting for approximately 10% of all cancer cases, according to 2022 World Cancer Research Fund data. The increasing prevalence of these diseases is expected to drive the demand for fiberscopes in the coming years, as fiberscopes are frequently used for diagnosis and treatment of gastrointestinal diseases and cancer.

The video endoscope segment is expected to grow at the fastest pace, exhibiting the highest compound annual growth rate (CAGR) among the flexible endoscope industry over the next few years. Videoendoscopes are able to provide high-quality images and videos, making them suitable for a variety of medical procedures, including laparoscopy, gastroscopy, and bronchoscopy. As such, they are widely used in hospitals and clinics as they improve diagnostic accuracy and patient outcomes. A recent development in the videoendoscopy industry is the introduction of high-definition (HD) and 4K imaging technologies, which provide higher quality and clearer images. In addition, manufacturers are working to improve the ease of use and ergonomics of videoscopes, with lightweight designs and touch screens becoming more common.

The leading players in the flexible endoscope market are maintaining their market position through innovation and obtaining approval of new products. Advances in flexible endoscope technology are revolutionizing the patient experience. For example, in July 2022, Israel's flexible, high-resolution disposable endoscope pioneer Zsquare announced that its ENT-Flex Rhinolaryngoscope received FDA approval. This is the first high-performance disposable ENT endoscope and marks an important milestone. It features an innovative hybrid design containing a disposable optical housing and reusable internal components. This flexible endoscope has an improved design that allows medical professionals to cost-effectively obtain high-resolution images through an unusually slim endoscope body. Benefits of this innovative engineering include improved diagnostic quality, increased patient comfort, and significant cost savings for payers and service providers.

Analysis by application The flexible endoscope application market segment is based on application areas and includes gastrointestinal endoscopy (GI endoscopy), pulmonary endoscopy (pulmonary endoscopy), ENT endoscopy (ENT endoscopy), urology, and others field. In 2022, the gastrointestinal endoscopy category accounted for the highest revenue share at approximately 38%. Gastroscopy involves using a flexible endoscope to obtain images of the lining of these organs. The increasing incidence of chronic diseases of the upper gastrointestinal tract is an important factor driving the growth of this segment.These diseases include irritable bowel syndrome, indigestion, constipation, gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD), gastric cancer, etc. In addition, the increase in the elderly population is also a factor driving the demand for gastroscopy, as the elderly are more susceptible to certain types of gastrointestinal diseases. Additionally, technological advancements in novel products have boosted the growth of this segment. This, in turn, increases the demand for new and advanced gastroscopes among doctors, driving the global market forward.

In May 2021, Fujifilm launched the EI-740D/S dual-channel flexible endoscope. Fujifilm's EI-740D/S is the first dual-channel endoscope approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for upper and lower gastrointestinal tract applications. The company has incorporated unique features into this product.

Analysis by end user On the basis of end user, the flexible endoscope market segments include hospitals, ambulatory surgery centers, and specialty clinics. The specialty clinics segment dominates the market, accounting for 42% of the total market revenue. This significant ratio is due to the widespread adoption and use of endoscopic devices in specialty outpatient facilities and favorable reimbursement policies. The category is also expected to grow rapidly throughout the forecast period owing to rising demand for cost-effective and convenient healthcare services leading to expansion of specialty clinic facilities. These clinics provide medical care that does not require an overnight stay, making them a more cost-effective option for many patients. Due to advances in medical technology and procedures, many procedures that were previously only performed in hospitals can now be performed in outpatient specialty clinic settings.

Market Factors Driving factors Hospitals are increasingly prioritizing investments in technologically advanced endoscopic instruments and expanding their endoscopy departments. This trend is driven by growing awareness of the benefits of advanced equipment to improve diagnostic accuracy and treatment effectiveness. To enhance patient care and remain at the forefront of medical innovation, the hospital is allocating resources to upgrade its endoscopic capabilities to meet the growing demand for minimally invasive procedures. The growth of the flexible endoscope market is significantly driven by the large patient population suffering from chronic diseases. The increasing patient population suffering from various chronic diseases, especially gastrointestinal (GI) diseases is driving the global flexible endoscope market. The increasing incidence of diseases such as colorectal cancer, esophageal cancer, pancreatic cancer, biliary tract diseases, inflammatory bowel disease, and gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) is expected to drive market growth. Lifestyle changes, such as unhealthy eating habits and lack of physical activity, lead to multiple complications such as hypertension, elevated blood sugar, dyslipidemia, and obesity. In addition, the increase in the elderly population will also drive the development of the flexible endoscope market. The average life span of an individual is expected to increase significantly in the future.The increase in the number of elderly people will increase the demand for medical services. The increased prevalence of chronic diseases in the population has promoted the frequency of diagnostic screening procedures. Therefore, the large patient population suffering from chronic diseases has resulted in significant increase in demand for endoscopy for diagnosis and treatment, thereby boosting the growth of the global flexible endoscope market.

Limiting factors In developing countries, the high indirect costs associated with endoscopy pose significant challenges to healthcare systems. These costs cover many aspects, including equipment purchase, maintenance and personnel training, making it very expensive to provide such services. In addition, limited reimbursement rates further exacerbate the financial burden, making it difficult for medical institutions to fully cover their expenses. This situation often results in unequal access to endoscopic services, with many patients unable to afford these examinations, thus hindering timely diagnosis and treatment.

Although endoscopy plays a vital role in diagnosing and treating various diseases, economic barriers in developing countries hinder its spread and accessibility. Addressing these issues will require a collaborative effort among policymakers, healthcare providers, and stakeholders to develop sustainable reimbursement models, invest in cost-effective equipment, and expand affordable endoscopy services to underserved populations. By alleviating financial constraints, health systems can ensure equitable access to endoscopy, ultimately improving health outcomes and reducing the burden of gastrointestinal disease in developing countries.

The major challenge hindering the growth of the flexible endoscope market is the threat of alternative procedures. Other endoscopes (rigid endoscopes and capsule endoscopes) as well as advanced imaging technologies pose a significant threat to the growth prospects of flexible endoscopes. In rigid endoscopy, a rigid telescope-like tube is inserted to view the organ of interest. Rigid endoscopy combined with microlaryngoscopy will significantly improve intralaryngeal access. Capsule endoscopy is the latest advancement in the field of gastrointestinal endoscopy and is an alternative to flexible endoscopy. It involves swallowing a small capsule containing a tiny camera.This camera takes pictures of the gastrointestinal tract (duodenum, jejunum, ileum) and sends these pictures to a recording device. Capsule endoscopy helps diagnose gastrointestinal conditions such as unexplained gastrointestinal bleeding, malabsorption, chronic abdominal pain, Crohn's disease, ulcerative tumors, polyps, and causes of small intestinal bleeding. Hence, the presence of these alternative methods is expected to hinder the growth of the global flexible endoscope market.

technology trends Technological advancement is the key trend driving the growth of the flexible endoscope market. Companies such as Olympus, EndoChoice, KARL STORZ, HOYA Group and Fujifilm Holdings are focusing on emerging economies due to the huge growth potential brought by the large patient base. To meet the growing demand for flexible endoscopes in these regions, some companies are developing strategies to expand their operations by opening new training facilities, establishing new greenfield projects, or exploring new acquisition or joint venture opportunities. For example, Olympus has been selling low-cost gastrointestinal endoscopes in China since January 2014 to increase adoption among tertiary hospitals and enter a market that is expected to grow at double-digit annual rates.The company also sells these devices in other emerging regions such as the Middle East and South America. In addition to Olympus, several other suppliers such as HOYA and KARL STORZ also have operations in emerging markets such as MEA (Middle East and Africa) and South America. This is expected to significantly drive adoption of flexible endoscopes in the coming years.

Regional analysis In 2022, the flexible endoscope market in North America will reach US$4.3 billion. It is expected to exhibit significant CAGR growth due to rising incidence of chronic diseases requiring the use of such devices, such as gastric and colorectal cancers and irritable bowel syndrome. According to statistics, 12% of adults in the United States suffer from irritable bowel syndrome. The region also faces the problem of an aging population, which is more susceptible to chronic diseases. People aged 65 and above will account for 16.5% of the total population in 2022, and this proportion is expected to rise to 20% by 2050. will further promote market expansion. The region's market is also benefiting from the easy availability of modern flexible endoscopes and new product launches, such as Ambu's aScope 4 Cysto, which received Health Canada authorization in April 2021.

Europe's flexible endoscope market occupies the second largest market share in the world. Rising prevalence of chronic diseases such as gastrointestinal diseases, cancer, and respiratory diseases in the European region is driving the demand for flexible endoscopes. Europe's aging population is rapidly increasing, leading to an increase in the incidence of age-related diseases. Flexible endoscopes are used for early detection, diagnosis and treatment of these diseases, driving the demand for such devices in the region. Germany's flexible endoscope market occupies the largest market share, and the UK's flexible endoscope market is the fastest growing market in Europe.

The flexible endoscope market in Asia Pacific is expected to grow at the fastest pace between 2023 and 2032, driven by factors such as aging population, increasing incidence of chronic diseases, and rising demand for minimally invasive surgeries. Increased government spending on health care and rising disposable incomes have led to greater access to advanced medical technologies such as flexible endoscopes. The continued development of healthcare infrastructure and increasing number of regional hospitals and diagnostic centers is expected to drive market growth. China's flexible endoscope market occupies the largest market share, while India's flexible endoscope market is the fastest growing market in the Asia-Pacific region.

Market Competition

Leading market players are focusing on various strategic initiatives such as mergers and acquisitions, partnerships, and collaborations with other organizations to expand their global presence and offer diverse product ranges to customers. New product launches, technological innovations, and geographical expansion are the major market development methods used by market players to expand market penetration. Furthermore, the global flexible endoscope industry is witnessing a growing trend of local manufacturing to reduce operating costs and provide more cost-effective products to customers.

Major players in the flexible endoscope market include Olympus Corporation, Fujifilm Corporation, Hoya Corporation, Stryker Corporation, and Carl Storz Ltd., among others, who are investing heavily in R&D activities to improve their products and gain market share Competitive advantage. As demand for minimally invasive procedures grows, several companies in the flexible endoscope industry are investing in developing endoscopes with enhanced imaging capabilities, improved maneuverability and greater flexibility to reach hard-to-reach locations.

Key Company Overview BD (Becton, Dickinson & Company) BD is a leading global medical technology company that provides a wide range of medical solutions, including instruments and accessories for endoscopy. BD is committed to improving the quality and efficiency of medical care through innovative technologies and products. In the field of endoscopy, BD provides a series of auxiliary equipment and support tools to help doctors perform efficient and accurate diagnosis and treatment. BD also focuses on research and development and continuously introduces new technologies and solutions to meet changing medical needs.

Boston Scientific Corporation Boston Scientific Corporation is an internationally renowned medical device manufacturer with product lines covering cardiovascular, neuromodulation, endoscopy and other fields. In the field of endoscopy, Boston Scientific offers a range of advanced endoscopy equipment and technologies, including endoscopy products for the digestive tract and respiratory system. Through continuous technological innovation and product research and development, Boston Scientific aims to provide more accurate and safer endoscopy and treatment solutions to help doctors improve diagnosis and treatment efficiency.

Fujifilm Corporation Fujifilm Corporation is a diversified Japanese conglomerate whose healthcare division focuses on providing advanced endoscope systems and other medical imaging equipment. Fujifilm leverages its expertise in optics and imaging technology to develop high-quality endoscope products, including HD and 4K endoscope systems. These products not only provide superior image quality, but also have advanced diagnostic capabilities that help improve the accuracy and efficiency of clinical diagnosis.

Stryker Corporation is a leading global medical technology company specializing in surgical devices, orthopedic products and endoscopic solutions. In the field of endoscopy, Stryker offers a range of specialized equipment and technologies for a variety of procedures. The company continues to promote technological innovation and aims to provide more intelligent and efficient endoscopy solutions to meet the needs of doctors and patients. Stryker is also committed to improving the safety and precision of surgery to help achieve better patient outcomes.

Olympus Corporation Olympus Corporation is a Japanese multinational corporation known for its leadership in optical and digital imaging technologies. In the medical field, Olympus is one of the leading suppliers of endoscopic technology and solutions. The endoscope products provided by the company cover all stages from diagnosis to treatment, including high-definition endoscopes, ultrasound endoscopes and therapeutic endoscopes. Olympus is committed to providing medical professionals with the best endoscopy solutions through continuous innovation and high-quality products.

Karl Storz is a German company specializing in medical endoscopy technology, providing a comprehensive range of endoscopy systems and services. KARL STORZ's products cover a variety of application scenarios, from basic endoscopy to complex minimally invasive surgery. The company is known for its high-quality imaging technology and durable equipment, while providing comprehensive training and support services to help medical professionals improve their skills and optimize surgical procedures.

Hoya CorporationHoya Corporation is a Japanese multinational corporation that provides a wide range of medical products and services, including endoscopic equipment. Hoya's endoscope products are recognized for their high performance and reliability and are suitable for a variety of medical scenarios. TAG Heuer is also committed to technological innovation and constantly launches new products to meet changing medical needs. The company's goal is to help improve patients' quality of life by providing high-quality endoscopic solutions.

Pentax MedicalPentax Medical is a company focused on endoscopic technologies and solutions, providing a range of endoscopic products for gastrointestinal and respiratory system examinations. Pentax Medical's products are known for their advanced image quality and innovative designs designed to improve diagnostic accuracy and patient comfort. The company continues to explore new technologies to provide more efficient and reliable endoscopy solutions to help doctors better serve patients.

Richard Wolf GmbHRichard Wolf is a German company specializing in the development and production of endoscopic technology and medical devices. The company has extensive experience in the field of endoscopy and provides comprehensive solutions including endoscope systems, accessories and surgical instruments. Richard Wolf's products are known for their superior performance and durability and are suitable for use in a variety of surgical environments. The company also provides professional technical support and services to ensure physicians can get the most out of its products.

Smith & Nephew Plcmith & Nephew is a leading global medical technology company offering a broad range of surgical, orthopedic and wound management products. In the field of endoscopy, mith & Nephew offers a range of equipment and technologies for minimally invasive surgery. The company is committed to providing safer and more effective endoscopic solutions through technological innovation to help doctors improve surgical quality and improve patient outcomes.

These companies have promoted the development of endoscopic technology through continuous innovation and research and development. Their products and services are changing surgical methods, improving surgical results, reducing surgical risks, and improving patients' quality of life. At the same time, these dynamics reflect the development trends and competitive landscape of the rigid lens market, including technological innovation, regulatory approvals, market entry and exit, and corporate strategic adjustments. These events not only affect the business direction of related companies, but also provide patients with more advanced and safer treatment options, pushing the entire industry forward.

Patent Matters Deserve Attention As competition in the field of endoscopic medical device technology intensifies, patent matters have become an indispensable part of the enterprise. Providing a good patent layout can not only protect the innovative achievements of enterprises, but also provide strong legal support for enterprises in market competition.

First, companies need to focus on patent application and protection. During the research and development process, once there is a new technological breakthrough or innovation, you should apply for a patent in a timely manner to ensure that your technological achievements are protected by law. At the same time, companies also need to regularly maintain and manage existing patents to ensure their effectiveness and stability.

Secondly, enterprises need to establish a complete patent early warning mechanism. By regularly searching and analyzing patent information in related fields, companies can keep abreast of technology development trends and competitors' dynamics, thereby avoiding possible patent infringement risks. Once an infringement risk is discovered, companies should quickly take measures to respond, such as seeking patent licenses, making technological improvements, or adjusting market strategies.

In addition, companies also need to be prepared for patent wars. In a highly competitive market environment, patent wars may break out at any time. Therefore, companies need to formulate response strategies in advance, such as establishing a dedicated legal team and reserving sufficient funds for possible patent litigation. At the same time, companies can also enhance their patent strength and market influence by establishing patent alliances with partners and participating in the formulation of industry standards.

In the field of endoscopic medical devices, the complexity and professionalism of patent matters are extremely demanding. Therefore, it is particularly important to find dedicated, high-level professionals and teams focused on this field. Such a team not only has a profound legal and technical background, but also can accurately understand and grasp the core points and market dynamics of endoscopic medical device technology. Their professional knowledge and experience will provide enterprises with accurate, efficient, high-quality and low-cost patent affairs services, helping enterprises to stand out in the fierce market competition. If you need to communicate, please scan the QR code below to add the medical IP to get in touch.

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