Ureteroscope Market Size & Outlook, 2025-2033

Ureteroscope Market Size

The global ureteroscope market size was valued at USD 1.31 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow from USD 1.38 billion in 2025 to reach USD 2.14 billion by 2033, growing at a CAGR of 5.62% during the forecast period (2025–2033).

One of the key drivers of the global ureteroscope market is the rising prevalence of urolithiasis, driven by poor hydration, high salt intake, and sedentary lifestyles. According to the National Kidney Foundation, over 500,000 Americans visit emergency rooms annually due to kidney stones, with global prevalence reaching up to 15% in adults. This has increased the demand for effective and minimally invasive procedures like ureteroscopy.

Additionally, technological advancements such as miniaturization, improved deflection capabilities, and high-resolution imaging are enhancing procedural success rates and patient safety. Another significant driver is the quick expansion of healthcare infrastructure, especially in emerging nations like India and China, where governments are heavily investing in modern urology equipment. These factors, along with rising awareness about early diagnosis and treatment of urological disorders, are collectively propelling the growth of the global ureteroscope market.

Latest Market Trends

Ai-Assisted Urology Tools

Artificial intelligence (AI) is transforming urology, particularly in diagnostic precision, procedural guidance, and image analysis. In this market, AI integration enhances real-time decision-making during endoscopic procedures, improving clinical outcomes and reducing operative time.

• For instance, at AUA 2025 held in April, Istanbul University researchers presented a Mask R-CNN-based model for real-time kidney stone detection and segmentation during robotic flexible ureterorenoscopy. The AI achieved a 92.2% AUC-ROC and ran in under 450 ms per frame, demonstrating strong potential for intraoperative use.

Such innovations enable surgeons to identify residual fragments more accurately, reducing recurrence. Additionally, AI-powered analytics in post-procedure videos are aiding training and performance audits. As AI matures, its adoption in urological endoscopy is expected to accelerate, shaping future advancements in precision urology.

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Ureteroscope Market Growth Factors

Increasing Prevalence of Urological Conditions among the Aging Population

One of the key drivers of the global market is the rising geriatric population. Aging significantly increases the risk of urological disorders such as nephrolithiasis, benign prostatic hyperplasia, and ureteral strictures, all of which often require endoscopic intervention.

• According to the World Health Organization, the global population aged 60 years and older is anticipated to reach 2.1 billion by 2050, up from 1 billion in 2020. This demographic shift is particularly pronounced in nations like Japan, Germany, and Italy, where more than 20% of the population is elderly.

Thus, these countries have witnessed a surge in urological procedures among their aging citizens, prompting hospitals to adopt advanced flexible ureteroscopes for safer, minimally invasive treatment. As this trend continues, the demand for ureteroscopes tailored to elderly patients with comorbidities is expected to grow substantially.

Market Restraining Factors

High Cost and Maintenance

One of the major restraints hindering the growth of the global market is the high cost associated with ureteroscopes, particularly digital and flexible variants. These devices can cost tens of thousands of dollars, and their maintenance or repair requires specialized services, which further add to the overall operational expenditure.

Smaller hospitals and clinics, especially in developing countries, often struggle to afford such advanced tools, limiting their adoption. Additionally, the cost of sterilization, staff training, and supporting infrastructure makes these devices less accessible. The financial burden becomes even more significant with reusable ureteroscopes, which require strict disinfection protocols to prevent infections.

Market Opportunities

Rising Adoption of Disposable Ureteroscopes

The rising demand for disposable ureteroscopes is creating a strong growth opportunity within the global market. These single-use devices offer significant advantages over traditional reusable scopes, including reduced cross-contamination risks, elimination of sterilization requirements, and lower long-term maintenance costs. As healthcare facilities increasingly prioritize patient safety and cost-efficiency, the shift toward disposable solutions is accelerating.

• For instance, in April 2024, Olympus received FDA 510(k) clearance for RenaFlex, its first single-use flexible ureteroscope. This high-definition, lightweight device features a 120° field of view and 270° tip articulation, ensuring reliable and consistent visualization during procedures. While its commercial launch is still pending, the regulatory clearance signals Olympus's strategic move into the growing disposable urology device segment.

Such advancements reflect a broader industry trend favoring flexible, hygienic, and cost-effective tools for outpatient and ambulatory surgical procedures.

Regional Insights

North America: Dominant Region

The ureteroscope market in North America is witnessing robust growth due to a high incidence of urolithiasis, advanced healthcare infrastructure, and widespread adoption of minimally invasive surgeries. Strong reimbursement frameworks and high awareness among urologists have accelerated the uptake of flexible and digital ureteroscopes. Technological innovations, including single-use scopes and AI-integrated systems, are also rapidly entering clinical practice. Additionally, increasing outpatient procedures in ambulatory surgical centers and early adoption of robotic-assisted urology tools are contributing to regional market expansion.

• The U.S. ureteroscope market is driven by high rates of urolithiasis, with over 1 in 10 Americans developing kidney stones, according to the National Kidney Foundation. Advanced healthcare infrastructure and increased adoption of disposable and digital ureteroscopes support market growth. For instance, Boston Scientific’s LithoVue single-use digital ureteroscope is widely used across U.S. ambulatory surgical centers and hospitals, enhancing procedural efficiency and reducing infection risks.
• Canada’s ureteroscope industry benefits from growing investments in urological care and minimally invasive technologies. Rising kidney stone incidence, especially in Ontario and Alberta, is increasing demand for flexible ureteroscopes. The Canadian Urological Association supports digital transformation in urology, and hospitals like Toronto General Hospital are adopting state-of-the-art ureteroscopic tools. Government-funded healthcare also facilitates broader access to modern urological diagnostics and interventions across the country.

Asia-Pacific: Significantly Growing Region

Asia Pacific presents prominent growth potential due to improving healthcare access, increasing patient awareness, and the growing burden of kidney-related disorders. Rising investments in healthcare infrastructure and the rapid expansion of private hospitals are facilitating the adoption of advanced urology devices. Cost-effective manufacturing and rising local production of endoscopic instruments are helping to meet domestic demand. Additionally, training programs and partnerships with international medical device firms are enabling skill development and broader uptake of digital and single-use ureteroscopes across urban and semi-urban centers.

• China's ureteroscope market is witnessing rapid growth driven by a rising incidence of kidney stones, affecting over 10% of the adult population. Government-backed healthcare reforms, such as the "Healthy China 2030" initiative, are expanding access to advanced urological care. Companies like Olympus and Pusen Medical are increasing investments in digital and disposable ureteroscopes, catering to growing demand from urban hospitals and tier-2 cities alike.
• India's market for ureteroscope is expanding due to the increasing prevalence of urolithiasis, especially in northern and western regions. According to AIIMS, over 12% of India's population may experience kidney stones in their lifetime. The rise of private multi-specialty hospitals and day-care surgical centers like Fortis and Apollo is accelerating the adoption of flexible ureteroscopes. Additionally, Make in India initiatives are encouraging local manufacturing of cost-effective urological devices.

Europe: Substantial Potential for Growth

Europe’s market growth is driven by rising demand for minimally invasive procedures and favorable government support for advanced diagnostic equipment. Healthcare systems across the region are integrating high-definition imaging and disposable scopes to reduce infection risks and procedural time. The presence of various leading medical device manufacturers has facilitated faster innovation and distribution. Growing clinical trials in urology and standardized surgical guidelines have further promoted the adoption of flexible ureteroscopes in hospitals and specialty clinics, enhancing procedural outcomes and market penetration.

• Germany’s ureteroscope industry is driven by its advanced healthcare infrastructure and high incidence of urolithiasis, affecting over 5% of the population annually. The government’s emphasis on minimally invasive surgery is fueling demand for flexible ureteroscopes. For example, hospitals like Charité – Universitätsmedizin Berlin have adopted digital ureteroscopes for precise stone management, boosting procedural efficiency and patient outcomes.
• The UK ureteroscope market is expanding due to NHS investments in endourology and growing preference for outpatient procedures. With over 80,000 hospital admissions for kidney stones annually, the demand for ureteroscopes is rising. Institutions like Guy’s and St Thomas’ Hospital utilize single-use ureteroscopes to reduce infection risks and reprocessing costs, aligning with the UK’s emphasis on patient safety and cost containment.

Product Type Insights

Flexible ureteroscopes hold the largest market share due to their superior maneuverability and ability to access the upper urinary tract, making them ideal for treating complex kidney stones and other urological conditions. Their advanced digital visualization enhances diagnostic accuracy and procedural outcomes. The increasing demand for minimally invasive surgeries and rising adoption in both developed and emerging healthcare systems further support segment growth. Technological advancements and reduced postoperative complications also contribute to the widespread use of flexible ureteroscopes globally.

Usage Insights

Reusable ureteroscopes remain a preferred choice in the market due to their long-term cost-effectiveness and availability of high-quality, durable designs. Hospitals and specialty clinics with advanced sterilization facilities often invest in reusable devices to reduce per-procedure costs. Although maintenance and repair can be costly, these scopes offer superior imaging and flexibility for repeated use. Their widespread availability and familiarity among urologists further drive their continued adoption, especially in high-volume healthcare settings across both developed and emerging regions.

Application Insights

Urolithiasis, or kidney stone disease, dominates the application segment of the market, boosted by the rising global prevalence of kidney stones due to dietary changes, obesity, and dehydration. Ureteroscopy is a preferred treatment for its minimally invasive nature, particularly for stones in the ureter or kidney. Flexible and semi-rigid ureteroscopes offer effective stone visualization and removal, improving patient outcomes. The increasing recurrence rate of kidney stones further boosts the segment’s growth in this market.

End-User Insights

Hospitals lead the end-user segment due to their comprehensive infrastructure, skilled medical professionals, and ability to handle high volumes of urological procedures. They are primary adopters of technologically advanced ureteroscopes, including flexible and digital variants, due to access to better funding and sterilization capabilities. Hospitals also support both inpatient and outpatient procedures, making them a central hub for ureteroscopy. The presence of dedicated urology departments in tertiary hospitals further solidifies their dominance in the global market.

Company Market Share

Companies in the ureteroscope market are focusing on product innovation, including the development of single-use and digital ureteroscopes to reduce infection risks and enhance imaging. They are also expanding their global footprint through strategic partnerships, acquisitions, and regional distribution networks. Investment in R&D for miniaturized and AI-integrated devices is on the rise, alongside efforts to offer training programs for urologists to increase adoption and procedure efficiency across various healthcare settings.

Olympus Corporation: Olympus Corporation is a leading player in the global ureteroscope market, renowned for its innovative endoscopic and urological solutions. Headquartered in Japan, the company offers a comprehensive range of flexible and rigid ureteroscopes equipped with advanced imaging technologies. Olympus is widely recognized for its VISERA ELITE II and URF-V series, which enhance diagnostic accuracy and procedural efficiency. With a strong global distribution network and consistent R&D investment, Olympus remains a dominant force in minimally invasive urological care.

• In September 2024, Olympus introduced the CH‑S700‑08‑LB, a 4K camera head for urological endoscopy compatible with the VISERA ELITE III system. It delivers four times the pixel count of HD, supporting 4K white‑light and Narrow Band Imaging (NBI), plus blue‑light visualization in one device. This enables sharper detection of bladder lesions and optimizes non‑muscle‑invasive bladder cancer diagnosis and treatment.

List of key players in Ureteroscope Market

1. Olympus Corporation
2. KARL STORZ SE & Co. KG
3. Richard Wolf GmbH
4. Stryker Corporation
5. Boston Scientific Corporation
6. PENTAX Medical
7. Vimex Endoscopy
8. Maxer Endoscopy GmbH
9. OTU Medical
10. Cliniva Healthcare

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Recent Developments

• April 2025- HugeMed officially launched its ultra-slim 6.3 Fr single-use flexible ureteroscope at the AUA 2025 conference in Las Vegas. Showcased at Booth #559, the device is designed for patients without stents, offering improved access, enhanced maneuverability, and better procedural efficiency, marking a significant advancement in minimally invasive urological technology.
• July 2024- Ambu’s aScope 5 Uretero, the company's latest single-use ureteroscope made from bioplastics, recently secured FDA 510(k) clearance. It's now rolling out across select U.S. medical centers, with a global launch scheduled by fiscal year-end. This eco-friendly, disposable device underscores the industry shift toward sustainable, sterile, and efficient urological instruments.