Less invasive technology, superior diagnostic techniques rekindle interest in urologicals

Less invasive technology, superior diagnostic techniques rekindle interest in urologicals

Considered a slow-to-moderate growth market, the urological diagnostics and therapeutics market is on the rebound. Selected segments of the urology market are expected to experience strong growth in this decade, according to a new report by Biomedical Business International, Santa Ana, Calif.

The report, "Urological Diagnostic and Therapeutic Devices Market," attributes this growth to the introduction of innovative products making minimally invasive procedures possible; prevalence of less conservative urologists eager to adopt new techniques to expand their practice; continued expansion of installed equipment base due to growth trends in outpatient and office-based procedures; aging of the population and increased emphasis in improving quality of life.

The overall urology market is forecasted to grow by 36% to $660.7 million in 1993 from $419.6 million in 1989, with each distinct sector exhibiting different growth rates.

More than 17 million Americans suffer from urological dysfunction, characterized by diseases of the genito-urinary system, such as male impotence, benign prostatic hyperplasia, renal/ruinary/biliary stone disease, cancer and various other urological problems. The total economic cost of these diseases is estimated at more than $20 billion annually.

Within the diagnostic segment, BBI projects strong growth in the area of urological endoscopy, attributed to innovations in the miniaturization of the diameter size of both rigid and flexible systems, the incorporation of video monitors, and in the development and use of such systems in other urological procedures such as lithotripsy, balloon dilation and laser surgery, among others.

Another diagnostic modality, urological ultrasound could dramatically expand if the HCFA approves the use of transrectal ultrasound as a screening device for prostate cancer in all men over the age of 40 in the United States.

The urodynamic monitoring sector, traditionally a slower growth area, is estimated to increase at a compounded annual growth rate of about 12% and could experience a much stronger growth rate in the next decade.

Several new modalities in the area of urologic therapy are expected to show promise as moderate-to-high growth areas. Treatment of impotence through the use of erection aids will grow at a compounded average rate of about 11.3%, with an increasing share of the market captured by the lower-end external devices and higher-end hydraulic and/or inflatable units. [Graph Omitted]

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