Ultrasound Conductivity Gel Market Report

In September 2023, Exo introduced the Iris portable ultrasound device, offering adaptable imaging features for point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS). Additionally, in July 2023, Konica Minolta Healthcare Americas, Inc. introduced the PocketPro H2, a wireless handheld ultrasound device meant for point-of-care general imaging purposes. These releases signify an increasing inclination towards portable ultrasound technology. The growing popularity of portable and home ultrasound machines is boosting the need for ultrasound gel, necessary for the machines to work effectively. The increasing need is generating major chances in both the professional and consumer markets for ultrasound gel.

Based on the 2023 Procedural Statistics released by ASPS, there has been a significant 5% increase in total cosmetic surgery procedures from the previous year. Specifically, there has been a 7% yearly rise in minimally invasive procedures, indicating a shift towards less intrusive approaches as people strive to maintain their beauty regimens in a cost-effective manner. The increased demand for cosmetic and aesthetic procedures such as non-surgical body sculpting and skin treatments has led to a higher requirement for ultrasound technology, consequently boosting the need for ultrasound gel.

NCBI's study shows the development of an ultrasound gel composed of environmentally friendly, natural ingredients such as aloe vera gel. This product is famous for its hypoallergenic features, which makes it great for individuals with sensitive skin. The research suggests that this gel can be utilized for medical imaging in ultrasound scans without causing harm to the skin, offering a practical substitute for standard commercial gels. Improved gel formulations that enhance patient comfort and image quality are driving their increased use in medical settings, leading to a rise in market demand.

In July 2024, MyMedic Innovation's ultrasound gel was recalled by the Medical Device Authority for safety reasons. The gel triggered the recall due to the presence of Burkholderia cepacia complex bacteria. This bacterial contamination creates notable health dangers, especially for people with weakened immune systems or ongoing health issues. Contamination of ultrasound gel by Burkholderia cepacia has led MyMedic Innovation Sdn Bhd to recall the product, potentially undermining consumer trust, reducing demand, and increasing regulatory oversight.

According to recent research, several alternatives to traditional ultrasound gel, such as vegetable oil, aloe vera, vaginal lubricant, and shampoo, are equally or more effective for ultrasound imaging. These alternatives are sufficient for diagnosing acute conditions, demonstrating that standard ultrasound gel is not essential for point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) imaging in challenging or limited resource settings. The study highlights that alternatives to traditional ultrasound gel are equally or more effective for imaging, potentially threatening the ultrasound gel market by reducing its perceived necessity in limited resource settings.

In certain procedures, ultrasound gel has been identified as a potential contamination risk. Multiple clinical studies have demonstrated that even sterile ultrasound gel can be responsible for healthcare-associated infections. Recently, CIVCO Medical Solutions, a leader in ultrasound infection control, introduced a ground-breaking solution designed to eliminate the use of gel in ultrasound procedures. The Envision viral barriers enable completely gel-free procedures. The Envision ultrasound probe covers and scanning pads are activated with a sterile liquid, eliminating the need for gel. This innovation significantly reduces the risk of contamination. The emergence of gel-free technology reduces ultrasound gel demand, posing a threat to the ultrasound conductivity gel market.

By providing products with natural ingredients and avoiding harmful additives such as dyes, parabens, and propylene glycol, producers are responding to the rising consumer demand for safer, more natural healthcare solutions. This approach is likely to boost demand among both healthcare providers and patients who are increasingly mindful of the ingredients in medical products.

For instance, in July 2023, Imaging Solutions, a provider of comprehensive medical imaging solutions, introduced the EcoVue Ultrasound Gel as part of its single-source supply offering. These advanced products underscore Imaging Solutions’ dedication to delivering high-quality, reliable solutions directly to its clients. The EcoVue Ultrasound Gel features a formulation comprised of 99% natural ingredients, excluding dyes, parabens, and propylene glycol. This innovative gel enhances the imaging experience while prioritizing patient comfort.

Innovations introduced by manufacturers underscore the evolving needs of the ultrasound market while creating new opportunities for advanced ultrasound gel solutions. As these technologies advance, the demand for ultrasound gels is expected to grow, driven by the need for enhanced performance and seamless integration with state-of-the-art systems. For instance, in June 2024, a study published on Arxiv highlighted significant advancements in free-hand ultrasound examinations through the use of telerobotic and autonomous robotic ultrasound systems (RUS). The research introduced an innovative end-of-arm tool named UltraGelBot, designed to reduce reliance on operator intervention. This autonomous device is equipped with a deep learning model that enables it to detect and dispense ultrasound gel.

Utilizing an onboard camera, UltraGelBot can identify the gel and deploy it via a motorized mechanism based on real-time feedback. Experimental trials conducted with phantom models demonstrated that UltraGelBot enhances image quality by 18.6% and reduces procedure time by 37.2%. These improvements underscore the potential of UltraGelBot to streamline ultrasound procedures, reduce operator dependency, and enhance diagnostic efficiency. Innovations in telerobotics are increasing the demand for advanced ultrasound gel solutions in the market.

In June 2024, the journal Nature published a study detailing an innovation by a Chinese research team in injectable biodegradable gel-based sensors for wireless intracranial signal monitoring. These innovative sensors overcome the limitations of existing clinical instruments. The study highlights that the new devices offer significant benefits, including reduced energy consumption and the absence of thermal effects. The development of injectable biodegradable gel-based sensors for intracranial monitoring demonstrates advanced applications of gel technology, potentially driving innovation and growth in the ultrasound conductivity gel market.

North America has emerged as the leading region in the ultrasound conductivity gel market, driven by several key factors. The area has a strong healthcare system that includes a high use of advanced ultrasound technology. Moreover, North America also houses numerous key market participants, such as various top producers and suppliers who focus on ultrasound conductivity gels. A study indicates that in 2040, approximately 20% of the population in America will be 65 years old, highlighting the need for diagnostic instruments.

The data from the IBEF indicates that India's hospital market is projected to attain a valuation of approximately US$193.59 billion by 2032. This expansion in healthcare infrastructure in both China and India is expected to significantly increase the demand for medical imaging technologies, including ultrasound, and consequently, the demand for ultrasound gel. Additionally, research from the PRB highlights a projected 19% increase in India’s population aged 60 and older by 2050.

The WHO has also predicted that China's elderly population will hit 28% by 2040. The growing and aging populations in these countries are driving a higher need for diagnostic procedures, particularly those utilizing ultrasound. Collectively, these trends position the Asia-Pacific region as a pivotal growth area for the ultrasound conductivity gel market.