Flexible Endoscopes Market
By Type;
Upper Gastrointestinal Endoscope, Colonoscope, Sigmoidoscope, Bronchoscope, Laryngoscope, Pharyngoscope, Duodenoscope, Nasopharyngoscope, Rhinoscope and OtherBy Application;
Gastrointestinal Endoscopy, Bronchoscopy, ENT Endoscopy, Urology (Cystoscopy), Obstetrics & Gynecology Endoscopy and OtherBy End User;
Hospitals, Ambulatory Surgery Centers (ASCs), Clinics and OthersBy Geography;
North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa and Latin America - Report Timeline (2021 - 2031)Flexible Endoscopes Market Overview
Flexible Endoscopes Market (USD Million)
Flexible Endoscopes Market was valued at USD 4,113.99 million in the year 2024. The size of this market is expected to increase to USD 7,221.49 million by the year 2031, while growing at a Compounded Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 8.4%.
Flexible Endoscopes Market
*Market size in USD million
CAGR 8.4 %
| Study Period | 2025 - 2031 |
|---|---|
| Base Year | 2024 |
| CAGR (%) | 8.4 % |
| Market Size (2024) | USD 4,113.99 Million |
| Market Size (2031) | USD 7,221.49 Million |
| Market Concentration | Medium |
| Report Pages | 348 |
Major Players
- Aesculap
- Arthrex
- Boston Scientific
- ConMed
- Covidien
- Ethicon
- Endo-Surgery
- Fujifilm Holdings Corporation
Market Concentration
Consolidated - Market dominated by 1 - 5 major players
Flexible Endoscopes Market
Fragmented - Highly competitive market without dominant players
Flexible Endoscopes Market is witnessing rapid growth due to the increasing preference for minimally invasive diagnostic and therapeutic procedures. More than 65% of healthcare facilities now integrate flexible endoscopy for internal examinations, enhancing precision while reducing patient recovery time. This shift is accelerating innovation in imaging, lighting, and maneuverability technologies. As hospitals aim for better outcomes, flexible endoscopes are emerging as a critical tool, paving the way for long-term expansion in the field.
Technological Innovations Driving Adoption
Advancements in endoscopic imaging systems, including high-definition and 3D visualization, are propelling adoption, with over 58% of newly procured endoscopy equipment featuring enhanced optics. These technological advancements allow for more accurate and early diagnoses across a range of conditions. The integration of AI-assisted diagnostics further contributes to market growth, as practitioners seek to improve procedure efficacy and patient safety. The pace of development continues to unlock new opportunities in clinical diagnostics.
Focus on Safety and Sterilization Enhancements
With over 60% of endoscopy-related concerns linked to device cleanliness, manufacturers are heavily investing in improved reprocessing technologies and disposable components. This focus on safety and hygiene is essential for maintaining procedural integrity and reducing infection risks. Regulatory frameworks are influencing strategies around product design and lifecycle, prompting companies to explore innovative, cost-effective sterilization solutions that enhance compliance and support future outlook.
Opportunities in Emerging Clinical Applications
Flexible Endoscopes Market is expanding into new clinical domains, with more than 55% of procedural innovations aimed at oncology, gastroenterology, and respiratory diagnostics. These emerging applications are reshaping demand and encouraging diversified product development strategies. The emphasis on customized solutions and end-user training programs further accelerates market adoption. As healthcare providers explore broader use cases, flexible endoscopes are positioned for sustained growth and innovation across the care continuum.
Flexible Endoscopes Market Key Takeaways
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Minimally Invasive Procedures are driving the adoption of flexible endoscopes, offering benefits such as reduced recovery times, lower complication risks, and shorter hospital stays, leading to increased demand across various applications.
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Technological Advancements in imaging quality, maneuverability, and the development of single-use endoscopes are enhancing procedural efficiency and patient outcomes, contributing to market growth.
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Rising Prevalence of Chronic Diseases such as gastrointestinal disorders, respiratory conditions, and cancers are fueling the demand for diagnostic and therapeutic endoscopic procedures, particularly in aging populations.
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Regional Growth is evident, with North America leading in market share due to advanced healthcare infrastructure, while the Asia-Pacific region is experiencing rapid growth driven by improving healthcare access and investments.
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Outpatient Settings are becoming increasingly popular for endoscopic procedures, attributed to cost-effectiveness and patient preference for non-hospital environments, influencing market dynamics.
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Competitive Landscape features key players like Olympus Corporation, Boston Scientific, Fujifilm Holdings, and Pentax Medical, focusing on product innovation and strategic partnerships to maintain market position.
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Regulatory Considerations and reimbursement policies play a significant role in market expansion, with varying standards across regions affecting the adoption and availability of endoscopic technologies.
Flexible Endoscopes Market Recent Developments
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In March 2023, EvoEndo, Inc., a medical device company specializing in unsedated transnasal endoscopy (TNE) platforms, received an investment from the American Gastroenterological Association's venture fund. The EvoEndo System features a sterile, single-use flexible gastroscope and a portable video controller for efficient upper endoscopy procedures.
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In February 2023, Boston Scientific obtained FDA 510(k) clearance for its LithoVue Elite single-use ureteroscope system. This innovation enhances patient care by enabling better understanding of how high intrarenal pressure affects outcomes and supports safer, single-use endoscopic procedures.
Flexible Endoscopes Market Segment Analysis
In this report, the Flexible Endoscopes Market has been segmented by Type, Application, End User, and Geography. Each of these segments plays a critical role in shaping market dynamics, highlighting the diverse applications and driving factors influencing the growth and adoption of flexible endoscopes across various medical specialties.
Flexible Endoscopes Market, Segmentation by Type
The market is segmented by Type, which is crucial for determining the various flexible endoscopes used in medical procedures. This segmentation helps define the specific device applications across specialties like gastroenterology, pulmonology, and ENT, addressing specific medical needs. With the increasing demand for non-invasive diagnostics and surgeries, the selection of the appropriate type is essential for achieving accurate results and improving patient outcomes in different clinical settings.
Upper Gastrointestinal Endoscope
This endoscope is used to examine the upper GI tract, assisting in diagnosing conditions like ulcers, tumors, and other gastrointestinal disorders. The growing prevalence of digestive disorders globally has significantly increased the demand for these devices. With advancements in imaging and diagnostics, upper gastrointestinal endoscopes have become an essential tool for early detection of conditions such as gastric cancer and esophageal reflux.
Colonoscope
Colonoscopy is essential for colon cancer screening and detection of inflammatory bowel diseases. It is one of the most widely used endoscopes globally, with its role in preventing cancer making it an indispensable tool in the healthcare system. The market for colonoscopes is expanding due to an aging population and increasing awareness of preventive screening programs, which further contribute to the demand for these devices.
Sigmoidoscope
Sigmoidoscopes are used for examining the sigmoid colon and rectum, primarily for detecting colon cancer and polyps. As part of routine colon cancer screening, the sigmoidoscope is favored for its ability to conduct quick and minimally invasive procedures, which are less costly than full colonoscopies while still providing vital insights into colorectal health. The segment is growing as hospitals and clinics increase adoption of such minimally invasive techniques.
Bronchoscope
Bronchoscopes are used in the diagnosis and treatment of lung diseases, offering critical insights into respiratory conditions such as lung cancer, pneumonia, and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD). With the rising prevalence of respiratory diseases and the increasing focus on early detection and management, bronchoscopes are indispensable for identifying abnormalities in the airways and lungs.
Laryngoscope
Laryngoscopes are used to inspect the larynx and vocal cords, helping identify issues like tumors, infections, and inflammation in the upper airway. They are essential for the early detection of diseases affecting the voice box, including laryngeal cancer. As the demand for early diagnostics and treatments in the field of otolaryngology grows, the adoption of laryngoscopes is expected to increase significantly.
Pharyngoscope
This endoscope is used to examine the pharynx, crucial for diagnosing infections and obstructions in the upper throat. With the rise in throat-related ailments and infections, the need for pharyngoscopes has surged. These devices are vital in diagnosing conditions such as tonsillitis, pharyngitis, and early-stage cancer of the throat, contributing to their widespread use in clinics and hospitals.
Duodenoscope
Duodenoscopes are used to inspect the duodenum, often used for the diagnosis of gastrointestinal conditions like Crohn’s disease, ulcers, and bile duct obstructions. The increasing incidence of gastrointestinal diseases, particularly in older populations, has created a strong demand for duodenoscopes in both diagnostic and therapeutic settings. These endoscopes offer a high degree of precision in evaluating the duodenal area.
Nasopharyngoscope
Used in ENT specialties, this endoscope helps in the diagnosis of nasal passage issues, including chronic sinusitis, polyps, and tumors. The growing prevalence of sinus and respiratory issues, especially in urban populations, is increasing the adoption of nasopharyngoscopes. As minimally invasive diagnostic procedures gain traction, these devices are playing a key role in non-surgical treatments for nasal disorders.
Rhinoscope
Rhinoscopes are used to examine the nasal cavity, assisting in diagnosing nasal disorders such as nasal polyps, sinus infections, and deviated septum. With rising pollution and respiratory issues in urban environments, the demand for rhinoscopes has increased, particularly in diagnosing conditions that lead to chronic nasal congestion and breathing difficulties.
Other
This category includes any specialized endoscopes used for procedures outside common clinical applications, often custom-designed for specific medical needs. These devices cater to niche medical areas where conventional endoscopes may not be effective, providing flexibility and precision in specialized treatments.
Flexible Endoscopes Market, Segmentation by Application
The market is further segmented by Application, which reflects the variety of clinical uses of flexible endoscopes across different medical procedures and specialties. These applications directly influence market demand, as they are associated with critical medical procedures that require highly accurate and minimally invasive diagnostic tools.
Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
Used primarily for diagnosing and treating gastrointestinal disorders, gastrointestinal endoscopy is a key application, especially for early cancer detection and other digestive diseases. The increasing incidence of diseases like colorectal cancer and inflammatory bowel disease is propelling the adoption of these technologies in hospitals and clinics.
Bronchoscopy
Bronchoscopy remains a critical tool in diagnosing lung diseases, with its growing application in detecting respiratory issues such as COPD and lung cancer. As respiratory conditions rise, driven by factors like pollution and smoking, bronchoscopy is crucial for non-invasive examinations of the lungs.
ENT Endoscopy
ENT endoscopy is expanding in demand, driven by increased cases of nasal, throat, and ear disorders. It is widely used in diagnosing and treating conditions like sinus infections, deviated septums, and ear infections. The growing focus on minimally invasive surgeries is further increasing the demand for these procedures.
Urology (Cystoscopy)
Cystoscopy is used in urology for bladder and urethra examinations, with increasing demand for these procedures to detect cancer, infections, and other urinary disorders. As healthcare providers focus more on early detection, the cystoscopy procedure is becoming increasingly common.
Obstetrics & Gynecology Endoscopy
In gynecology, endoscopic procedures like hysteroscopy are gaining popularity due to their minimally invasive nature, offering lower recovery times and better patient outcomes. These procedures are becoming a standard practice for female reproductive health diagnostics and surgeries.
Other
Other applications include endoscopic procedures used in a wide range of medical fields, such as oncology, neurology, and chronic disease management, where precise imaging is critical for monitoring treatment progress and disease evolution.
Flexible Endoscopes Market, Segmentation by End User
The market is segmented by End User, with each type of user having unique requirements and driving factors for adopting flexible endoscopes. Hospitals, clinics, and ambulatory surgery centers each have specific needs for these devices, driven by the volume of diagnostic procedures and surgeries performed.
Hospitals
Hospitals represent the largest end-user segment, as they conduct a wide variety of diagnostic and therapeutic endoscopic procedures across numerous specialties, from gastroenterology to urology. Hospitals' high adoption rate of flexible endoscopes is also due to the growing demand for minimally invasive surgery and diagnostic precision.
Ambulatory Surgery Centers (ASCs)
ASCs are rapidly adopting flexible endoscopes for outpatient surgeries, focusing on providing high-quality, cost-effective diagnostic and treatment procedures. These centers cater to patients seeking quicker recovery times with reduced hospital stays, making flexible endoscopes an ideal choice.
Clinics
Clinics, particularly those specializing in gastroenterology, ENT, and urology, are adopting flexible endoscopes to provide efficient, less invasive diagnostic procedures to patients. This shift is driven by the need for quicker diagnoses and treatments without requiring hospital admissions.
Other
Other end users include diagnostic labs and research institutions where flexible endoscopes are used for both patient care and clinical research purposes, particularly in advanced diagnostic centers.
Flexible Endoscopes Market, Segmentation by Geography
In this report, the Flexible Endoscopes Market has been segmented by Geography into five regions: North America, Europe, Asia Pacific, Middle East & Africa, and Latin America. These regions are crucial for understanding regional market trends, technological adoption rates, and healthcare infrastructure.
Regions and Countries Analyzed in this Report
North America
North America leads the market due to the strong healthcare infrastructure, advanced medical technologies, and high adoption of minimally invasive procedures, contributing to the region's market dominance in flexible endoscopes.
Europe
Europe's market growth is driven by increasing demand for non-invasive surgeries and the adoption of new technologies in the medical field, with hospitals and clinics seeking advanced endoscopic solutions.
Asia Pacific
The Asia Pacific region is experiencing rapid growth due to expanding healthcare infrastructure, rising awareness about endoscopic procedures, and government support, positioning it as the fastest-growing market.
Middle East and Africa
The Middle East and Africa market is showing steady growth as healthcare systems continue to improve, boosting the demand for diagnostic and therapeutic equipment such as flexible endoscopes.
Latin America
Latin America is experiencing growth in the flexible endoscope market, driven by improving access to advanced healthcare technologies and rising investments in medical infrastructure, enhancing healthcare accessibility across the region.
Flexible Endoscopes Market Forces
This report provides an in depth analysis of various factors that impact the dynamics of Flexible Endoscopes Market. These factors include; Market Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities Analysis.
Drivers, Restraints and Opportunity Analysis
Drivers
- Increasing Prevalence of Gastrointestinal and Respiratory Diseases
- Growing Demand for Minimally Invasive Procedures
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Technological Advancements in Endoscopic Imaging and Navigation Systems:Technological advancements in endoscopic imaging and navigation systems have significantly enhanced the capabilities and utility of flexible endoscopes in clinical practice. These advancements encompass various aspects of endoscopic technology, including imaging modalities, image processing algorithms, navigation systems, and integration with other medical devices. One key area of innovation is the development of high-definition (HD) and ultra-high-definition (UHD) imaging technologies, which provide superior visualization of anatomical structures and pathology during endoscopic procedures. With improved resolution, clarity, and color reproduction, HD and UHD endoscopic images enable clinicians to identify lesions, abnormalities, and subtle changes with greater accuracy and confidence, facilitating more precise diagnosis and targeted interventions.
Furthermore, technological advancements have led to the integration of advanced imaging modalities such as narrow-band imaging (NBI), autofluorescence imaging (AFI), and confocal laser endomicroscopy (CLE) into flexible endoscopes. These imaging modalities offer additional diagnostic information by highlighting specific tissue characteristics, vascularity patterns, and cellular morphology, enhancing the detection and characterization of lesions, early cancers, and inflammatory changes. Moreover, real-time image processing algorithms and software tools enable clinicians to enhance image contrast, reduce image noise, and perform digital image manipulation during endoscopic procedures, further improving visualization and diagnostic accuracy.In addition to imaging advancements, innovations in endoscopic navigation systems play a crucial role in improving procedural efficiency and patient safety. Navigation technologies, such as electromagnetic tracking, optical tracking, and virtual endoscopy, enable precise localization of endoscopic instruments and accurate guidance to target areas within the body. By providing three-dimensional (3D) visualization and real-time tracking of endoscope position and orientation, navigation systems facilitate complex interventions, such as biopsy sampling, lesion resection, and stent placement, with greater precision and minimal invasiveness. Overall, technological advancements in endoscopic imaging and navigation systems have transformed the landscape of minimally invasive diagnostic and therapeutic procedures, empowering healthcare providers with advanced tools and capabilities to improve patient care outcomes and enhance the patient experience.
Restraints
- High Cost of Flexible Endoscopy Equipment and Procedures
- Limited Reimbursement Coverage for Endoscopic Procedures
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Concerns Regarding Infection Control and Sterilization of Endoscopic Instruments;Concerns regarding infection control and sterilization of endoscopic instruments are significant considerations in healthcare settings due to the potential risk of transmitting infectious agents between patients during endoscopic procedures. Flexible endoscopes, with their intricate design and numerous channels, pose unique challenges for effective cleaning, disinfection, and sterilization, raising concerns about the adequacy of current reprocessing protocols and the potential for cross-contamination.One of the primary concerns is the complexity of endoscope reprocessing procedures, which involve multiple manual steps, including cleaning, disinfection, rinsing, and drying. Despite following established reprocessing guidelines and using high-level disinfectants, residual organic material and microbial biofilm can accumulate within endoscope channels and components, serving as reservoirs for bacterial, viral, and fungal pathogens. Inadequate cleaning and disinfection practices, equipment malfunction, and human error can compromise the efficacy of reprocessing procedures, leading to the transmission of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) between patients.
To address these concerns, healthcare facilities and regulatory agencies have implemented stringent guidelines and quality assurance measures to ensure the effectiveness of endoscope reprocessing protocols. This includes regular auditing of reprocessing practices, staff training on proper reprocessing techniques, routine maintenance and inspection of endoscope equipment, and adherence to manufacturer's instructions for use (IFU). Additionally, advancements in endoscope design, such as disposable components, single-use devices, and automated reprocessing systems, aim to simplify reprocessing procedures, minimize the risk of contamination, and enhance patient safety.
Despite these efforts, challenges remain in achieving consistent and reliable sterilization of endoscopic instruments, particularly in busy clinical environments with high procedural volumes. Ongoing research and development efforts focus on innovative sterilization technologies, such as hydrogen peroxide gas plasma sterilization, ozone sterilization, and ultraviolet (UV) light sterilization, to complement existing reprocessing methods and improve the efficacy of endoscope sterilization. By addressing concerns regarding infection control and sterilization, healthcare providers can mitigate the risk of HAIs, safeguard patient health, and maintain trust and confidence in endoscopic procedures as safe and effective diagnostic and therapeutic interventions.
Opportunities
- Expansion of Endoscopic Services in Emerging Markets
- Adoption of Telemedicine and Remote Endoscopy Solutions
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Development of Disposable and Single-Use Endoscopes:The development of disposable and single-use endoscopes represents a notable advancement in endoscopic technology aimed at addressing concerns related to infection control and sterilization. Unlike conventional reusable endoscopes, which require complex reprocessing procedures after each use, disposable and single-use endoscopes are designed for one-time use and subsequent disposal, eliminating the need for reprocessing and the associated risks of cross-contamination.Disposable endoscopes offer several advantages over traditional reusable endoscopes, including reduced risk of infection transmission, improved procedural efficiency, and enhanced patient safety. By eliminating the need for reprocessing, disposable endoscopes minimize the potential for residual contamination and microbial biofilm formation within endoscope channels and components, mitigating the risk of healthcare-associated infections (HAIs) between patients. Moreover, disposable endoscopes eliminate the logistical challenges and costs associated with reprocessing, such as equipment maintenance, staff training, and compliance with reprocessing guidelines, leading to greater convenience and cost-effectiveness for healthcare facilities.
Single-use endoscopes, which are designed for a limited number of uses before disposal, offer a balance between the convenience of disposability and the flexibility of multiple uses. These endoscopes are equipped with durable materials and components that maintain performance and integrity throughout their designated lifespan, allowing clinicians to perform multiple procedures with confidence while minimizing the risk of cross-contamination. Single-use endoscopes are particularly well-suited for settings where reprocessing facilities are limited, procedural volumes are low, or infection control concerns are paramount, such as outpatient clinics, ambulatory surgery centers, and remote healthcare facilities.
Despite their benefits, the adoption of disposable and single-use endoscopes has been subject to scrutiny regarding cost-effectiveness, environmental sustainability, and performance equivalence compared to reusable counterparts. Healthcare providers weigh these considerations when evaluating the feasibility of integrating disposable and single-use endoscopes into their clinical practice. Ongoing research and development efforts focus on enhancing the performance, durability, and affordability of disposable and single-use endoscopes, ensuring that they meet the rigorous standards of clinical practice and regulatory requirements while addressing the evolving needs and preferences of healthcare providers and patients.
Flexible Endoscopes Market Competitive Landscape Analysis
Key players in Flexible Endoscopes Market include:
- Olympus Corporation
- Karl Storz SE & Co. KG
- Boston Scientific Corporation
- FUJIFILM Corporation
- HOYA Corporation (Pentax Medical)
- Ambu A/S
- Stryker Corporation
- Richard Wolf GmbH
- EndoMed Systems GmbH
- Smith & Nephew plc
- Medtronic plc
- Cook Medical LLC
- B. Braun SE
- Smiths Medical / Smiths Group
- Sonoscape Medical Corporation
In this report, the profile of each market player provides following information:
- Market Share Analysis
- Company Overview and Product Portfolio
- Key Developments
- Financial Overview
- Strategies
- Company SWOT Analysis
- Introduction
- Research Objectives and Assumptions
- Research Methodology
- Abbreviations
- Market Definition & Study Scope
- Executive Summary
- Market Snapshot, By Type
- Market Snapshot, By Application
- Market Snapshot, By End User
- Market Snapshot, By Region
- Flexible Endoscopes Market Forces
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
- Drivers
- Increasing Prevalence of Gastrointestinal and Respiratory Diseases
- Growing Demand for Minimally Invasive Procedures
- Technological Advancements in Endoscopic Imaging and Navigation Systems
- Restraints
- High Cost of Flexible Endoscopy Equipment and Procedures
- Limited Reimbursement Coverage for Endoscopic Procedures
- Concerns Regarding Infection Control and Sterilization of Endoscopic Instruments
- Opportunities
- Expansion of Endoscopic Services in Emerging Markets
- Adoption of Telemedicine and Remote Endoscopy Solutions
- Development of Disposable and Single-Use Endoscopes
- Drivers
- PEST Analysis
- Political Analysis
- Economic Analysis
- Social Analysis
- Technological Analysis
- Porter's Analysis
- Bargaining Power of Suppliers
- Bargaining Power of Buyers
- Threat of Substitutes
- Threat of New Entrants
- Competitive Rivalry
- Drivers, Restraints and Opportunities
- Market Segmentation
- Flexible Endoscopes Market, By Type, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Upper Gastrointestinal Endoscope
- Colonoscope
- Sigmoidoscope
- Bronchoscope
- Laryngoscope
- Pharyngoscope
- Duodenoscope
- Nasopharyngoscope
- Rhinoscope
- Other
- Flexible Endoscopes Market, By Application, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Gastrointestinal Endoscopy
- Bronchoscopy
- ENT Endoscopy
- Urology (Cystoscopy)
- Obstetrics & Gynecology Endoscopy
- Other
- Flexible Endoscopes Market, By End User, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Hospitals
- Ambulatory Surgery Centers (ASCs)
- Clinics
- Others
- Flexible Endoscopes Market, By Geography, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- North America
- United States
- Canada
- Europe
- Germany
- United Kingdom
- France
- Italy
- Spain
- Nordic
- Benelux
- Rest of Europe
- Asia Pacific
- Japan
- China
- India
- Australia & New Zealand
- South Korea
- ASEAN (Association of South East Asian Countries)
- Rest of Asia Pacific
- Middle East & Africa
- GCC
- Israel
- South Africa
- Rest of Middle East & Africa
- Latin America
- Brazil
- Mexico
- Argentina
- Rest of Latin America
- North America
- Flexible Endoscopes Market, By Type, 2021 - 2031 (USD Million)
- Competitive Landscape
- Company Profiles
- Olympus Corporation
- Karl Storz SE & Co. KG
- Boston Scientific Corporation
- FUJIFILM Corporation
- HOYA Corporation (Pentax Medical)
- Ambu A/S
- Stryker Corporation
- Richard Wolf GmbH
- EndoMed Systems GmbH
- Smith & Nephew plc
- Medtronic plc
- Cook Medical LLC
- B. Braun SE
- Smiths Medical / Smiths Group
- Sonoscape Medical Corporation
- Company Profiles
- Analyst Views
- Future Outlook of the Market

