How Single-use Bronchoscopes are Shaping the Future of Minimally Invasive Procedures
The global single-use bronchoscopes market has experienced remarkable momentum in recent years, expanding at a CAGR of 19.2% between 2019 and 2024 to reach a valuation of US$ 473.6 million in 2024. According to Persistence Market Research, the upward trend is set to continue, with worldwide sales forecasted to increase at a CAGR of 23.6% to hit US$ 2,390.7 million by the end of 2032. Single-use bronchoscopes accounted for 28.2% of the global single-use endoscopes market in 2024, underscoring their growing prominence in modern medical diagnostics and treatment.
Clinical Significance of Bronchoscopy
Bronchoscopy is a critical diagnostic tool used to determine the cause of pulmonary radiographic anomalies. Clinicians rely on this procedure for detecting infections, neoplasms, hemoptysis, and for therapeutic purposes such as clearing airway secretions, removing mucus plugs, alleviating airway obstructions, and managing airways during treatment. With the increasing incidence of lung cancer and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), demand for bronchoscopy procedures—and by extension, single-use bronchoscopes—is surging.
Growth Drivers
Infection Prevention in Healthcare Settings
One of the primary factors driving adoption is the infection prevention advantage. Single-use flexible bronchoscopes are sterile devices, eliminating the risk of cross-contamination that comes with reusable models. This has become especially important since the COVID-19 pandemic heightened awareness of infection control, prompting both healthcare workers and patients to prioritize safety.
Rising Burden of Lung Cancer and COPD
The growing prevalence of lung cancer is a major contributor to market expansion. As per the World Cancer Research Fund International, lung cancer is the second most common cancer worldwide, with over 2.2 million new cases reported in 2020. Similarly, COPD remains a leading cause of death, responsible for 3.23 million deaths globally in 2019 according to the WHO. In 2024, COPD indications accounted for 29.5% of the market share for single-use bronchoscopes.
Shift to Minimally Invasive Procedures
The transition from open surgeries to minimally invasive diagnostic and therapeutic procedures has also propelled demand. Single-use bronchoscopes are cost-effective alternatives for hospitals and clinics, particularly for routine airway inspections and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) procedures.
Market Challenges
Despite strong growth prospects, the market faces headwinds. Environmental concerns are a significant challenge—non-biodegradable disposable bronchoscopes contribute to landfill waste, raising sustainability issues. Moreover, certain complex endoscopic surgeries still require specialized reusable equipment, limiting the scope of single-use devices in some advanced procedures. Industry experts believe that the development of biodegradable materials and effective recycling systems could open new growth avenues.
Market Outlook
By 2025, the single-use bronchoscopes market is projected to reach US$ 564.5 million, before climbing to the forecasted US$ 2,390.7 million in 2032 at a CAGR of 22.9%. The top five countries will account for more than 51.3% of global sales, reflecting concentrated adoption in developed healthcare systems.
Country-wise Insights
United States: A Regulatory Push for Adoption
The United States remains a key revenue generator, holding 30.2% of the global market in 2024. With approximately 500,000 bronchoscopies performed annually, the country’s demand is bolstered by FDA recommendations encouraging the use of single-use bronchoscopes, particularly for patients at high risk of infection such as those with COVID-19. This regulatory backing, combined with the country’s advanced healthcare infrastructure, positions the U.S. as one of the most lucrative markets globally.
China: Geriatric Population Driving Demand
China accounted for 7.9% of the market in 2024, with the rise in lung cancer cases and a rapidly aging population fueling growth. A 2022 study in the Chinese Medical Journal projected 4.82 million cancer cases in the country, with lung cancer being the most prevalent. The government’s approval and promotion of disposable bronchoscopes are enabling wider adoption, particularly among elderly patients who benefit from less invasive, infection-free procedures.
Germany: Focus on Infection Control
Germany held 4.3% of the global share in 2024. Rising healthcare-associated infections have intensified the need for sterile, single-use devices. The country’s robust medical manufacturing sector is fostering innovation, as exemplified by Zsquare’s win at the German Innovation Awards 2024 for its high-performance single-use endoscopes.
Segment Insights
By Type
Regular-sized single-use bronchoscopes dominated the market in 2024, capturing 34.8% share. Their popularity stems from their suitability for both adult and teenage patients suffering from chronic lung disorders. Broader availability and compatibility with standard procedures further enhance their demand.
By Usage
Bronchoscopy suites emerged as the largest usage segment with 44.5% market share in 2024. These specialized environments offer advanced equipment, optimized room designs, and skilled diagnostic personnel, making them the preferred setting for procedures.
By Indication
COPD remained the leading indication for single-use bronchoscopes, with 29.5% market share in 2024. The condition’s high mortality rate and link to lung cancer make bronchoscopy an essential diagnostic and monitoring tool.
Competitive Landscape
The competitive environment is marked by continuous product innovation and expansion. Key players are enhancing imaging quality, maneuverability, handling, and compatibility with various medical tools. Notable developments include:
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Olympus Corporation securing clearance for its H-SteriScope™ Single-use Bronchoscopes in April 2021, designed for advanced diagnostic and therapeutic use.
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Ambu A/S receiving FDA 510(k) clearance in July 2022 for its aScope™ 5 Broncho family of sterile, single-use bronchoscopes.
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Collaborations between manufacturers and research institutions aimed at integrating cutting-edge technology into disposable bronchoscopy solutions.
Prominent companies in the sector include:
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AMBU A/S
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Boston Scientific Corporation
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Fujifilm Holdings Corporation
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Karl Storz GmbH & Co. KG
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NeoScope Inc.
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Olympus Corporation
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PENTAX Medical
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Endoso Life
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Innovex Medical Co., Ltd.
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Hunan Vathin Medical Instrument Co., Ltd.
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Zhejiang Geyi Medical Instrument Co., Ltd.
Future Opportunities
While environmental concerns persist, they also present opportunities. Developing biodegradable single-use bronchoscopes could address sustainability issues and enhance market acceptance, especially in countries with stringent environmental regulations. Additionally, the integration of AI-assisted imaging and remote monitoring capabilities could further differentiate products in a competitive landscape.
Conclusion
The single-use bronchoscopes market is undergoing a transformative phase, driven by heightened infection control awareness, rising chronic respiratory diseases, and continuous technological advancements. Although environmental impact remains a challenge, the sector’s growth trajectory is strong, with the potential to nearly quintuple in value by 2032. Strategic innovation—both in product development and sustainability—will be key to capitalizing on this booming market.
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