Ultrasound Repair: Devices and Overview
Overview
Ultrasounds are commonly known for being used during pregnancy. However, they are also have use in diagnostics, medical procedures, and even therapeutic applications. This is one of the reasons why the ultrasound device industry is experiencing growth along with the medical device industry. It’s also why their repairs are crucial for hospitals and medical facilities. Let’s examine the ultrasound device subset of the medical device industry. We will discuss the types, costs, and parts in ultrasound repair.
Market Statistics & Categories
Because ultrasounds have a wide variety of uses, there are many types of ultrasounds machines on the market. At CSAT Medical, we focus on cart ultrasounds and compact ultrasounds. Cart ultrasounds comprise about 2/3rd, or 67%, of the market, and account for most of the machines in the U.S. Cardiologists and OB/GYNs are the primary users of ultrasounds. They fall into three categories based on their technology and image quality: low, medium, and high end. Low end carts make up the largest sub-segment of this category. This also means they also make up the majority of the ultrasound repair market.
On the other hand, compact ultrasounds make up about 1/3rd, or 33%, of the market. Compact ultrasounds produce a lower quality image compared to cart ultrasounds. Therefore, their primarily use is for initial diagnosis. A sub-segment of compact ultrasounds are handheld devices, which are the most basic of the types. Compact machines cost less because of less technology and parts involved. They typically only come with one probe per machine. They range from $20,000-$40,000, whereas cart ultrasounds can reach up to $75,000 in cost. Though they have a similar lifespan, with both carts and compacts typically functioning for 7-10 years, cart ultrasounds can perform multiple different types of exams.
Parts & Repair
Most ultrasound machines have components such as control panels, channel boards, probes, monitors, and power supplies. Usually, carts have three or more probes per machine, which accounts for their range of use. But, this also means more machinery that can break, and more repairs required. Ultrasound repair prices will be higher for carts because of their more advanced technology and functionality. Each of the components listed above have a possibility of needing repair. A wide variety of people use these machines, so they are at higher risk for breaking.
If you’re interested in learning more about the ultrasound repair market and CSAT’s capabilities, contact us today. We specialize in the ultrasound repair market and can you’re your repairs more efficient and cost-effective.