Spinal Imaging Market Size, Share and Trends 2024 to 2034

Spinal Imaging Market Size and Forecast 2024 to 2034

The global spinal imaging market size is worth around USD 2.09 billion in 2024 and is anticipated to reach around USD 3.49 billion by 2034, growing at a CAGR of 5.23% from 2024 to 2034. The spinal imaging market is driven by the growing need for sophisticated diagnostic instruments like MRIs, CT scans, and X-rays to enable precise diagnosis and treatment planning due to the rising incidence of spinal illnesses like degenerative disc disease, spinal stenosis, and ruptured discs.

Spinal Imaging Market Key Takeaways

• North America dominated the global market with the largest market share of 33% in 2023.
• Asia Pacific is observed to be the fastest growing during the forecast period.
• By product, the MRI segment contributed the highest market share of 41% in 2023.
• By product, the CT segment is anticipated to witness the fastest CAGR of 5.83% during the forecast period.
• By application, the spinal cord and nerve compressions segment captured the biggest market share in 2023.
• By application, the spinal infection segment is anticipated to grow at the fastest CAGR during the forecast period.
• By end-use, the hospital segment generated the major market share in 2023.
• By end-use, the diagnostic imaging centers segment shows a notable CAGR during the forecast period.

Integration of Artificial Intelligence in Spinal Imaging

Numerous illnesses, such as degenerative, neoplastic, infectious, traumatic, and inflammatory demyelinating diseases, can affect the spine, which is a significant location of pathology. Diagnostic imaging frequently plays a crucial role when diagnosing spinal disorders. Artificial intelligence could greatly impact every stage of spinal imaging. By enhancing image quality, imaging effectiveness, and diagnostic precision, AI can increase spine scans' value for patients and physicians.

• Over time, there has been a growing variety of uses for AI in radiology, particularly its subset ML, which now includes picture interpretation, scan protocoling, and workflow optimization. Numerous AI methods, such as endoscopic image analysis, image feature fusion, and augmentation, have been effectively used for various radiological and medical activities. 

U.S. Spinal Imaging Market Size and Growth 2024 to 2034

The U.S. spinal imaging market size is evaluated at USD 480 million in 2024 and is projected to be worth around USD 820 million by 2034, growing at a CAGR of 5.40% from 2024 to 2034.

North America has the largest share of the spinal imaging market in 2023. North America has a highly developed healthcare system with extensive access to the latest diagnostic facilities. Modern imaging technologies, including MRI, and PET scans, are available in hospitals, clinics, and diagnostic centers, making spinal imaging services easily accessible. Insurance companies and government healthcare programs in the United States, including Medicare and Medicaid, widely cover spinal imaging techniques. These regulations promote use while lessening the financial strain on patients.

• In January 2023, the world premiere of DeepSpine, an AI-powered lumbar spine quantification and metrics tool intended to evaluate MRI lumbar spine images, was launched by DeepTek, a prominent health tech startup in the radiology AI field. The tool was introduced during the annual meeting of the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA) in Chicago.

Asia-Pacific is observed to be the fastest growing in the spinal imaging market during the forecast period.  Due to the region's sizable and quickly expanding senior population, spinal problems like osteoporosis, degenerative diseases, and spinal cord injuries are becoming more common. The need for diagnostic procedures like spine imaging (MRI, CT scans, X-rays) to evaluate spinal health is growing along with the number of older persons. Healthcare facilities progressively use high-quality imaging technologies that provide comprehensive insights into spine anatomy, including identifying intricate problems such as degenerative disc diseases and fractures.

• The latest technology, such as 3D imaging, AI-powered diagnostics, and portable imaging devices, further accelerates the region's adoption of spinal imaging solutions.

Market Overview

Several methods are used in spinal imaging to produce fine-grained images of the spine and adjacent tissues. These pictures aid in the diagnosis of spinal disorders, therapy planning, and illness progression tracking. Both spine MRI and X-ray are common imaging methods that provide distinct advantages for visualizing spinal structure and disease.

According to the World Health Organization, more than 15 million people suffer from spinal cord injuries (SCI). Most SCI cases are preventable since they are caused by trauma, such as falls, car accidents, or violent crimes.

• In April 2024, The U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved the Inceptiv closed-loop rechargeable spinal cord stimulator (SCS) for chronic pain, according to a statement released by Medtronic plc, a pioneer in healthcare technology worldwide.

Spinal Imaging Market  Growth Factors

• The need for spinal imaging solutions has increased due to ongoing advancements in imaging technologies, including MRIs, CT scans, and ultrasounds, which have improved image quality, resolution, and efficiency.
• Adopting improved spinal imaging technologies is driven by the growing preference for minimally invasive operations, which depend on precise imaging for appropriate diagnosis and treatment planning.
• The demand for spinal imaging is driven by the growing incidence of spine problems, such as herniated discs, scoliosis, and degenerative diseases, which have increased the need for precise diagnostic tools.
• The market is growing due to the increased availability of sophisticated spinal imaging technology brought about by the ongoing improvement of healthcare infrastructure worldwide, particularly in emerging nations.

Market Scope

Market Dynamics

Driver

Rising incidence of spinal disorders

Since osteoporosis and arthritis cause degenerative changes in the spine over time, older people are more vulnerable to spinal problems. Advanced imaging methods are frequently needed for spinal diseases to accurately diagnose, plan, and monitor treatment. Imaging techniques such as MRI, CT, and X-rays are essential for observing the spine's structure and identifying anomalies. Access to cutting-edge imaging technologies has improved in emerging economies due to increased investments in healthcare infrastructure.

Restraints

Limited sensitivity of MRI to bone abnormalities

Soft tissues like ligaments, muscles, intervertebral discs, and nerves are very well-imaged by MRI. However, compared to imaging modalities like CT (Computerized Tomography) scans or X-rays, it is less sensitive to the fine structural details of bone. The usefulness of MRI is limited because conditions that impact bone density and integrity, like Paget's disease, are better observed using CT or bone-specific imaging techniques. In diagnostic processes, CT and X-rays frequently substitute or enhance MRI due to their limitations in bone imaging. In some spinal disorders, this lowers the necessity for MRI.

Complexity of spinal disorders

Degenerative illnesses (such as spondylosis and ruptured discs), congenital abnormalities, infections, trauma, and malignancies are all included in the wide range of spinal disorders. The need for different imaging methods and procedures for each kind makes it more difficult to standardize imaging solutions. Specialized radiologists with musculoskeletal and spinal imaging knowledge are needed to interpret spinal imaging. The usefulness of spinal imaging technology is limited in many areas by a lack of such specialists.

Opportunity

Advancements in imaging technology

High-field magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and multi-detector computed tomography (MDCT), two contemporary imaging technologies, offer incredibly detailed pictures of the spinal components. This makes it possible to identify minute anomalies such as disc herniations, microfractures, and early indicators of degenerative illnesses. The use of advanced ultrasound imaging in spinal assessments has been made possible, especially when it comes to directing minimally invasive operations like nerve block placements and epidural injections.

Product Insights

The MRI segment has the largest share in the spinal imaging market in 2023. Since magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) produces high-resolution, detailed images without exposing users to radiation, it is the recommended technique for spinal imaging. The body's soft tissues, such as the spinal cord, nerves, muscles, ligaments, and tendons, are especially well-suited for MRI imaging. When assessing spinal injuries, MRI is incredibly helpful. When a physical examination reveals muscle weakness or paralysis, it aids in diagnosing or excluding acute spinal cord compression. Subtle alterations in the spinal column that could be an early indication of an infection or tumor can be found with MRI. MRI is more sensitive than CT scanning when assessing tumors, abscesses, and other soft tissue masses close to the spinal cord.

The CT segment is observed to be the fastest growing in the spinal imaging market during the forecast period. Since computed tomography (CT) scans are an effective method for identifying and treating spine disorders, they are in high demand for spinal imaging. When other forms of examination, like X-rays or physical examinations, are inconclusive, a CT scan of the spine may be used to check for a herniated disk, tumors, and other lesions, the extent of injuries, structural anomalies like spina bifida, blood vessel malformations, or other conditions. Additionally, a CT scan of the spine can be used to assess the results of spinal treatments like surgery or other therapies.

Application Insights

The spinal cord and nerve compressions segment has the largest share in the spinal imaging market in 2023.  Around the world, spinal cord and nerve compression conditions such as sciatica, spinal stenosis, and ruptured discs are very common. Due to their increased risk of degenerative spinal disorders, these problems are particularly prevalent in older populations. In addition to diagnosis, imaging is essential for preoperative planning and postoperative assessment of procedures such as spinal fusion and decompression surgery. The need for imaging technologies that target spinal cord and nerve compressions has increased due to the rise in spine procedures performed worldwide.

The spinal infection segment is observed to be the fastest growing in the spinal imaging market during the forecast period. The danger of post-operative infections is increased by the rising frequency of invasive procedures and spinal surgeries, necessitating accurate imaging for diagnosis and follow-up. Spinal disorders are more common in patients with weakened immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS, cancer, or receiving chemotherapy. The need for diagnostic imaging is rising as this demographic expands. The frequency of imaging referrals has increased due to awareness initiatives and medical education that highlight the significance of early detection of spinal infections.

End-use Insights

The hospital segment held the largest share in the spinal imaging market in 2023. Every day, hospitals handle a sizable patient population, including referrals from primary care centers and smaller clinics and emergency cases. Hospitals commonly undertake spinal imaging because of their accessibility and wide range of care offers, especially in situations of spinal cord injuries, degenerative disorders, and trauma. Numerous hospitals' clinical research activities facilitate the adoption of cutting-edge imaging technology. Hospitals have strengthened their position in the market by expanding their spinal imaging capabilities through technologies like 3D imaging and functional MRI.

• The diagnostic imaging centers segment is observed to be the fastest growing in the spinal imaging market during the forecast period.

Spinal conditions, including scoliosis, ruptured discs, and spinal stenosis have become more common as the population ages and lifestyles change. Millions of people worldwide suffer from back pain, which increases the need for accurate diagnostic tools to enable efficient treatment. Diagnostic imaging facilities are becoming increasingly dependent on high-quality imaging necessary for early detection and individualized treatment strategies. Several governments are supporting diagnostic centers as part of larger healthcare programs to increase access to cutting-edge diagnostic techniques. More people are seeking aging services due to public awareness initiatives on spinal health and the value of early diagnosis.

Spinal Imaging Market Companies

• GE HealthCare
• Koninklijke Philips N.V.
• Siemens Healthineers AG
• Canon Medical Systems Corporation
• FUJIFILM
• Hitachi, Ltd.
• Toshiba Medical Systems, Inc.
• Bruker
• Mediso Ltd.
• Shimadzu Corporation

Recent Developments

• In May 2024, the 2024 RSNA Lumbar Spine Degenerative Classification AI Challenge was initiated by the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA). To encourage the development of AI technologies for radiology and enhance patient care, RSNA hosts AI challenges.
• In December 2023, Vital, a spinal fixation device from ZimVie, received FDA approval to use Brainlab's surgical imaging, planning, and navigation tools. In March 2023, Germany-based Brainlab and US-based ZimVie started collaborating. The two businesses collaborated to use Brainlab's surgery platforms and software to make integrating the devices into the operating room easier.
• In June 2023, to make its OEC 3D Imaging System and DePuy Synthes' wide range of products available to more surgeons and patients in the US, GE HealthCare and DePuy Synthes, the Orthopaedics Company of Johnson & Johnson, signed a distribution agreement. This new partnership exemplifies GE HealthCare's continued dedication to providing top-notch imaging technology to physicians who treat patients by performing some of the most difficult spine surgeries available today.

Segments Covered in the Report 

By Product 

• X-Ray
  • Myelogram
  • Discogram
  • X-Ray (Without Contrast Media)
• CT
  • Myelogram
  • Discogram
  • X-Ray (Without Contrast Media)
• MRI
• Ultrasound

By Application

• Spinal Infection
• Vertebral Fractures
• Spinal Cancer
• Spinal Cord and Nerve Compressions

By End-use 

• Hospital
• Diagnostic Imaging Centers
• Ambulatory Care Centers

By Geography

• North America
• Asia Pacific
• Europe
• Latin America
• Middle East and Africa