High Definition GI Endoscopes and Wireless Capsules Lead the Way in Gastrointestinal (GI) Endoscopy Devices Market

Dublin, CA 

Capsule Endoscopy is creating a new wave of growth due to greater patient acceptability. Availability of more affordable capsule endoscopes and new technology aimed at improving functionality and image analysis will help in further expansion of this segment. Price wars are lowering unit prices for new devices. Reasons vary from the availability of reprocessed single-use devices to multiple-brand compatibility of many instruments and the availability of a wide range of brands of devices such as forceps and hemostasis devices. Virtual colonoscopy is no longer reimbursed by Medicare. This will help traditional colonoscopy remain as the gold standard in the US. Reimbursement in Europe however is still available.

In a new report titled “Gastrointestinal (GI) Endoscopy Devices Worldwide,” Marketstrat finds that the GI Endoscopy market is largely underpenetrated. Many GI disorders remain under-reported and under-diagnosed, including GERD and IBS. Many colon cancers are detected at an advanced stage. Colon cancer screening is recommended at regular intervals for all people over the age of 60, yet only 40 percent of this population is estimated to comply with clinical guidelines. There is a shortage if trained clinicians. Demand for GI endoscopy in Asia is primarily due to rising rates of esophageal cancer and high rates of stomach cancer.

GI Endoscopy will continue to be a high volume, lower reimbursement service in the US. Over the last few years, GI endoscopy has largely shifted from a hospital outpatient setting to ambulatory surgery centers and physician’s offices. Currently, gastroenterology is the most common procedure carried out at ambulatory surgery centers. However, recent reductions in Medicare coverage in the US will impact GI endoscopy done at ambulatory surgery centers. Changing demographics in developing countries, such as increasing affluence and affluence-related lifestyle factors including sedentary habits and malnutrition, will further drive up rates of acute and chronic GI disorders in people of all ages. Strong growth is expected in Europe, Asia and the rest of the world, as healthcare expenditures rise in parallel to screening and diagnosis rates.