Ultrasound Gel Market (By Type: Non-sterile, Sterile; By End-use: Hospitals, Ambulatory Centers, Clinics) - Global Industry Analysis, Size, Share, Growth, Trends, Revenue, Regional Outlook and Forecast 2024-2033

The global ultrasound gel market size was estimated at around USD 101.23 million in 2023 and it is projected to hit around USD 135.25 million by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 2.94% from 2024 to 2033. 

Key Pointers

• North America dominated the market and accounted for the largest revenue share of 41% in 2023. 
• Asia Pacific is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR of 3.84% during the forecast period. 
• The non-sterile segment held the largest revenue share of 72% in 2023. 
• The sterile segment is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR of 3.66% during the forecast period.

Ultrasound Gel Market Overview

The ultrasound gel market serves as a crucial component in medical imaging procedures, facilitating efficient transmission of ultrasound waves between the transducer and the skin. It ensures clearer and more accurate imaging results by eliminating air gaps and reducing friction. The market for ultrasound gel is driven by the increasing prevalence of various medical conditions necessitating ultrasound diagnostics, such as pregnancy monitoring, organ examination, and musculoskeletal imaging.

Ultrasound Gel Market Growth 

The ultrasound gel market is experiencing steady growth due to increased demand for ultrasound diagnostics across various medical conditions. Advancements in ultrasound technology, rising healthcare expenditure, and emphasis on patient safety are driving factors. Additionally, expanding applications of ultrasound and growing awareness about preventive healthcare contribute to market expansion. Overall, the market is poised for continued growth in the foreseeable future.

Report Scope of the Ultrasound Gel Market

Ultrasound Gel Market Trends:

• Growing Demand in Healthcare Industry: The ultrasound gel market is witnessing steady growth due to the increasing demand for diagnostic imaging procedures in the healthcare industry. Ultrasound remains a widely used diagnostic tool for various medical conditions, driving the demand for ultrasound gels.
• Rise in Non-Invasive Procedures: With a growing preference for non-invasive diagnostic procedures, ultrasound imaging is becoming increasingly popular. This trend is fueling the demand for ultrasound gels as they are essential for ensuring optimal ultrasound imaging quality and accuracy.
• Increasing Awareness and Accessibility: Rising awareness about the benefits of ultrasound imaging, coupled with improved accessibility to healthcare services in emerging markets, is contributing to the growth of the ultrasound gel market. As healthcare infrastructure improves globally, the demand for ultrasound gels is expected to rise.
• Expanding Applications: Ultrasound imaging is no longer limited to traditional diagnostic purposes. It is increasingly being used in diverse fields such as obstetrics, cardiology, urology, and musculoskeletal imaging. This expanding scope of applications is driving the demand for specialized ultrasound gels tailored to specific medical procedures.
• Focus on Eco-Friendly Formulations: There is a growing emphasis on developing eco-friendly ultrasound gel formulations that are free from harmful chemicals and environmental pollutants. Manufacturers are investing in research and development to create biocompatible and sustainable ultrasound gel alternatives to meet the demands of environmentally-conscious consumers.
• Online Distribution Channels: The proliferation of online distribution channels is providing manufacturers with new avenues to reach a wider customer base. E-commerce platforms offer convenience and accessibility, enabling consumers to purchase ultrasound gels directly from manufacturers or authorized distributors.

End-use Insights

The hospital segment held the largest revenue share in 2023 and is expected to grow at a significant CAGR over the forecast period. The increasing number of emergency visits in hospitals reporting problems such as acute abdominal pain, chest pain, and vascular problems where ultrasound is the primary diagnostic tool is expected to drive the demand for ultrasound gels. Moreover, using the ultrasound device in follow-up visits is expected to fuel the demand curve as gel must be applied each time before examination. In November 2022, 56 (Targeted Imaging for Foetal Anomalies) TIFFA scan machines were inaugurated at 44 government hospitals in Telangana, India. This initiative is likely to propel the growth of ultrasound gel in the region.

Ambulatory centers and clinics are anticipated to grow at the speediest rate in the ultrasound gels market during the forecast period. The rising awareness about the importance of early intervention in reducing healthcare costs has increased the installation rate of ultrasounds in clinics. The availability of handheld ultrasound devices at affordable prices has further promoted their adoption rate in small-sized clinics. Therefore, the growing number of ultrasound units in clinics has contributed to the rising demand for gel in these setups.

Type Insights

Based on type, the market is segmented into non-sterile and sterile ultrasound gel. The non-sterile segment held the largest revenue share of 72% in 2023. Ultrasound imaging can be further classified into internal and external probe procedures. External ultrasound probe procedures can be performed on intact skin and require low cleaning and disinfection after every use, making it suitable for external probe procedures. Therefore, the increasing number of external probe procedures for diagnosing kidney, and gallbladder problems, cancers, and intestinal diseases are expected to drive segment growth. In July 2023, Imaging Solutions announced the launch of EcoVue Ultrasound Gel and Acclimate Gel Warmer as part of its single-source supply offer, showcasing its commitment to providing high-quality solutions directly to customers. EcoVue comes in single-use packets, with sterile and non-sterile options, designed to reduce cross-contamination during bottle reuse. They also come with a sterile SafeWrap for added protection.

The sterile segment is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR of 3.66% during the forecast period. These are commercially available in 20ml pocket-sized packets and used in ultrasound procedures where sterility is indicated, especially when treating open wounds and during needle guidance. The segment is expected to grow significantly due to contamination and the possibility of an infection outbreak associated with using multi-use nonsterile gel bottles. The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has updated its guidelines on using sterile ultrasound gel during procedures. According to these guidelines, sterile gel should be used if an invasive procedure is likely to be performed within the next 24 hours, including procedures such as ultrasound viewing or initial assessment that are carried out before an invasive procedure.

Regional Insights

North America dominated the market and accounted for the largest revenue share of 41% in 2023. The factors such as the presence of major market players, developed healthcare infrastructure, and streamlined reimbursement policies are expected to drive the regional market growth. In addition, the increasing acceptance of ultrasound at community-level clinics and home healthcare is expected to aid market growth.

Europe held the second-largest market share. Huge consumption of medical consumables, growing healthcare expenditure, and rising medical imaging procedures are anticipated to drive the market in the region. According to the annual statistics released by the National Health Service (NHS), from March 2022 to February 2023, over 43.0 million imaging tests were reported in England, out of which 3.33 million imaging tests were reported to have taken place in February 2023, and 0.78 million of these were diagnostic ultrasonography.

Asia Pacific is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR of 3.84% during the forecast period. Large unmet needs, developing healthcare facilities, and the presence of several small-scale domestic manufacturers, especially in countries such as China and India, are expected to boost market growth. TELE-PAPER Malaysia, one of Asia's largest thermal product manufacturers, introduced SONOMED ULTRASOUND GEL, a filtered water-based gel that can be used with any ultrasonic device. It reduces the air space, making it easy for the transducer to transmit sound waves and receive their reflections to produce precise, clear images.

Ultrasound Gel Market Key Companies

• Compass Health Brands
• ECO-MED
• National Therapy Products
• H.R Pharmaceuticals Inc
• Tele-Paper Malaysia
• Sonogel Vertriebs
• Medline Industries, Inc.
• Parker Laboratories
• Ultragel Kft.

Ultrasound Gel Market Segmentations:

By Type 

• Non-sterile
• Sterile

By End Use 

• Hospitals
• Clinics
• Diagnostic center
• Ambulatory center

By Region

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