The global fluoroscopy equipment market is forecast to grow at a compound annual growth rate of 3.5% from 2017 to 2021, according to a new Research and Markets report. Propelling growth in this market: Recent technological advances in fluoroscopic devices, such as the integration of radiation-reducing equipment, as well as the emergence of control circuits.

According to the report, another driver in the market is the wide application of fluoroscopes. After all, fluoroscopy is used for several surgeries such as orthopedic, podiatric, urological, and cardiovascular surgeries. It is also used to investigate the GI tract, including barium enemas, defecating proctograms, barium meals, and barium swallows, and enteroclysis.

Even so, the report states that one major challenge the market is facing is the use of refurbished fluoroscopes—a practice that has increased in recent years. Although the use of refurbished fluoroscopes has provided significant cost savings for hospitals—as well as reduced the cost of treatment for patients—it has cut into the profits of fluoroscope manufacturers.

Specifically, the use of refurbished fluoroscopes has decreased the volume of sales of new fluoroscopes purchased by hospitals and other organizations, which has also affected the revenue of vendors, Research and Markets officials say.