Handheld Ultrasound Scanners Market
The increased adoption of handheld point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) devices and the rise in demand for image-based diagnostic systems and real-time delivery are among the prominent factors driving the handheld ultrasound scanners market growth. However, the shortage of skilled professionals and the limited battery life of portable ultrasound scanners are hampering the growth of the market.
Integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI)
AI algorithms can analyze ultrasound images with exceptional speed and precision, identifying subtle patterns and abnormalities the human eye may miss. This can lead to earlier disease detection, better severity assessment, and more targeted treatment plans. AI-powered features can also assist in guiding image acquisition, optimizing image quality, and providing real-time feedback to the operator, enhancing the overall examination process. The integration of AI will also lead to the development of novel applications for handheld ultrasound scanners. For instance, in April 2024, GE HealthCare launched Caption AI for Vscan Air SL to provide quick point-of-care cardiac assessments. With Caption AI technology, medical professionals utilizing the Vscan Air SL handheld ultrasound device will obtain automated ejection fraction estimation to support clinical judgments in various cardiac scenarios and real-time, step-by-step guidance for capturing diagnostic-quality images.
Developing AI-powered cloud-based platforms for image analysis and data storage will facilitate the sharing of ultrasound images and data among healthcare providers, enabling collaborative decision-making and improved patient outcomes. This will also foster research and development, allowing the creation of new AI models and applications for handheld ultrasound. As AI technology advances, more handheld ultrasound scanners with sophisticated AI features are expected. This trend will not only improve the accuracy and efficiency of diagnostic imaging but also unlock new possibilities for personalized healthcare, remote monitoring, and disease management.
Based on geography, the Handheld Ultrasound Scanners market is segmented into North America (US, Canada, and Mexico), Europe (Spain, UK, Germany, France, Italy, and Rest of Europe), Asia Pacific (South Korea, China, India, Japan, Australia, and Rest of Asia Pacific), the Middle East & Africa (South Africa, Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Rest of Middle East & Africa), and South & Central America (Brazil, Argentina, and Rest of South & Central America). The rising prevalence of chronic diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular diseases, and respiratory diseases, the development of innovative products, and the presence of key market players in the region have increased the demand for handheld ultrasound scanners in countries in North America. The US held the largest share of the market in North America in 2023. According to a Cancer Statistics report published by the American Cancer Society Journal in January 2024, ~2 million new cases of cancer and 611,720 deaths from cancer are projected to occur in the US in 2024. The rising prevalence of cancer increases the demand for ultrasound imaging devices, including handheld ultrasound scanners. A handheld ultrasound scanner is a compact and portable ultrasound device designed for use in small spaces, at a patient’s bedside, or in the field in real-time to aid in the early diagnosis and treatment of cancer.
Developments by the market players in the US are further expected to enhance market growth. For instance, in February 2024, Butterfly Network announced the commercial launch of Butterfly iQ3, the company’s third-generation handheld point-of-care ultrasound (PoCUS) system, in the US. This new technology features two advanced 3D imaging capabilities: iQ Slice and iQ Fan. These tools are designed to simplify image capturing.
The handheld ultrasound scanners market has been segmented on the basis of product type, application, and end user.
Based on product type, the handheld ultrasound scanners market is segmented into 2D handheld ultrasound scanners, 3D/4D handheld ultrasound scanners, and Doppler ultrasound. The 2D handheld ultrasound scanners segment held the largest market share in 2023. 2D handheld ultrasound scanners are the most common portable ultrasound devices, offering a cost-effective and versatile solution for point-of-care imaging. By application, the market is segmented into gynecology, neurology, cardiology, urology, aesthetics, musculoskeletal, veterinary, and other applications. The gynecology segment held the largest share of the market in 2023. Handheld ultrasound scanners have been widely applied in gynecology for quick and accurate assessments of pelvic organs, including the uterus, ovaries, and fallopian tubes. With their compact size and ease of use, handheld ultrasound scanners are particularly useful in outpatient settings, emergency departments, and remote healthcare facilities where traditional ultrasound machines may not be readily available. Gynecologists can use these devices to visualize fetal development during pregnancy, diagnose ovarian cysts, assess pelvic inflammatory disease, and guide minimally invasive procedures such as intrauterine device (IUD) placement. The portability and versatility of handheld ultrasound scanners make them invaluable tools for improving access to gynecological care and enhancing patient outcomes.
Based on end user, the market is segmented into hospitals and ambulatory care centers, diagnostic centers, military usage, remote areas, primary care/family medicine, medical/nurse education, veterinary clinics, and others. The hospitals and ambulatory care centers segment dominated the market in 2023. Hospitals play a significant role by providing extensive medical services to the patient population suffering from various diseases. Ambulatory surgery centers (ASCs) are modern healthcare facilities that provide same-day surgical care, which includes diagnostic and preventive procedures. ASCs have transformed the outpatient experience by providing patients with a more convenient alternative to hospital-based outpatient procedures. The medical treatments, investigations, and procedures performed at the ASCs include orthopedic procedures, diagnostic care, and joint and vascular procedures.
Handheld Ultrasound Scanners Market: Competitive Landscape and Key Developments
GE HealthCare Technologies Inc; Siemens Healthineers AG; Koninklijke Philips NV; FUJIFILM SonoSite Inc; EchoNous Inc; Sonoscanner; Healcerion Co., Ltd; Shenzhen Mindray Bio-Medical Electronics Co Ltd; Clarius Mobile Health Corp; Butterfly Network Inc; TERASON DIVISION TERATECH CORPORATION; Guangzhou SonoHealth Medical Technologies Co., Ltd; CHISON Medical Technologies Co., Ltd.; Vave Health; Nipro Medical Corp; ASUSTek Computer Inc; and FUKUDA DENSHI are among the leading companies profiled in the handheld ultrasound scanners market report. In addition, several other players have been studied and analyzed during the study to get a holistic view of the market and its ecosystem. These companies focus on geographic expansions and new product launches to meet the surging demand from consumers worldwide and increase their product range in specialty portfolios. Their global presence allows them to serve a large customer base, subsequently facilitating market expansion.
