How Are Hospitals and Ambulatory Surgical Centers Fueling Growth in the Ureteroscopy Market?

Introduction

The landscape of urological treatment is undergoing a profound transformation. As the prevalence of kidney stones, urinary tract disorders, and urological cancers continues to rise, healthcare systems worldwide are turning to minimally invasive solutions that promise faster recovery, reduced pain, and lower hospitalization costs. Among these, flexible and semi-rigid ureteroscopy has emerged as one of the most efficient and patient-friendly techniques.

Hospitals and Ambulatory Surgical Centers (ASCs) play a pivotal role in driving this market’s expansion by investing in advanced ureteroscopic systems, adopting cutting-edge imaging and laser technologies, and offering outpatient urology services that improve accessibility and affordability. According to Credence Research, recent market insights, the Flexible and Semi-Rigid Ureteroscopy Market, valued at USD 43.3 billion in 2024, is projected to reach USD 77.5 billion by 2032, expanding at a CAGR of 7.55%. This growth reflects a global shift toward minimally invasive urological care driven by patient preferences, healthcare economics, and technology integration.

This article explores in depth how hospitals and ASCs are fuelling growth in this dynamic market from technology adoption and patient care transformation to regional expansion and competitive innovation.

Source: Flexible and Semi-Rigid Ureteroscopy Market Size, Share and Forecast 2032

1.      Understanding Ureteroscopy and Its Growing Medical Importance

Figure 2: Digital illustration of a flexible ureteroscope connecting a hospital and an ambulatory surgical center (ASC), leading to a rising arrow that signifies market growth.

1.1 What is Ureteroscopy?

Ureteroscopy is a minimally invasive endoscopic procedure used to diagnose and treat conditions affecting the urinary tract, particularly the ureters and kidneys. Using a thin, flexible, or semi-rigid tube equipped with a camera and light source, urologists can visualize the urinary tract, locate obstructions or stones, and perform targeted treatments such as laser lithotripsy to fragment stones.

1.2 Evolution from Rigid to Flexible Systems

Historically, rigid ureteroscopes were the standard tool for stone removal. However, these devices limited access to upper urinary tract regions. The evolution toward semi-rigid and fully flexible ureteroscopes revolutionized the procedure by allowing deep and precise navigation through complex anatomical structures with minimal trauma.

1.3 Why Hospitals and ASCs are Adopting Ureteroscopy

The growing incidence of nephrolithiasis (kidney stones) — affecting an estimated 1 in 10 people globally and the surge in urological cancers have made ureteroscopic interventions indispensable. Hospitals and ASCs recognize ureteroscopy’s value in:

• Minimizing surgical trauma
• Shortening recovery times
• Reducing hospital stays and costs
• Providing same-day discharge options

2. Market Overview: Global Growth and Key Statistics

2.1 Market Size and Forecast

The global Flexible and Semi-Rigid Ureteroscopy Market reached USD 43.3 billion in 2024 and is expected to hit USD 77.5 billion by 2032, growing at a CAGR of 7.55%. This growth is supported by:

• Rising prevalence of kidney stones and urinary tract infections (UTIs)
• Aging populations prone to urological disorders
• Increased adoption of minimally invasive procedures
• Technological advancements in imaging, flexibility, and disposable scopes

2.2 Key Market Segments

By Product:

• Flexible Ureteroscopes
• Semi-Rigid Ureteroscopes
• Fiberoptic Ureteroscopes
• Digital Ureteroscopes
• Rigid Ureteroscopes

By Application:

• Therapeutic (stone removal, tumor resection)
• Diagnostic (biopsies, obstruction evaluation)

By End User:

• Hospitals and Clinics
• Ambulatory Surgical Centers (ASCs)
• Diagnostic Centers
• Research Centers

2.3 Market Drivers

• Minimally invasive trend: Patients increasingly prefer procedures with fewer complications and faster recovery.
• Technological progress: Integration of HD imaging, laser lithotripsy, and digital fiberoptic visualization enhances clinical outcomes.
• Healthcare expansion in emerging regions: Infrastructure growth in India, China, and Brazil supports equipment adoption.

3. The Role of Hospitals in Market Expansion

3.1 Hospitals as Technology Integrators

Hospitals are at the forefront of integrating next-generation ureteroscopes into clinical practice. Their large patient base and financial capacity allow them to:

• Invest in high-cost flexible scopes and laser platforms.
• Conduct comprehensive diagnostic and therapeutic services.
• Collaborate with global device manufacturers for clinical validation and training.

3.2 Multi-disciplinary Approach

Hospitals offer a multi-disciplinary ecosystem combining urology, nephrology, radiology, and anesthesiology which makes them the most suitable institutions for complex procedures like laser lithotripsy and ureteral strictures management. This holistic environment ensures higher procedural success and patient satisfaction.

3.3 Patient Demand for Shorter Hospitalization

Modern hospitals are transforming inpatient urological care into day-care or short-stay models, leveraging the minimally invasive nature of ureteroscopy. Patients benefit from:

• Same-day discharge
• Less postoperative pain
• Reduced risk of infection

This shift aligns with global healthcare goals of cost-efficiency and improved bed utilization.

3.4 Training and Skill Development

Hospitals also act as training centers for urologists. Through partnerships with manufacturers like Olympus and Boston Scientific, hospitals host workshops, simulation labs, and live surgeries that enhance the skillset of upcoming professionals — a key factor driving sustainable market growth.

4. Ambulatory Surgical Centers (ASCs): The Growth Accelerators

4.1 The Rise of Outpatient Urology

Ambulatory Surgical Centers (ASCs) have become the fastest-growing end-user segment in ureteroscopy. These centers specialize in day-care surgical procedures, offering cost-effective alternatives to hospital settings. The flexibility and safety of modern ureteroscopes make them ideal for outpatient interventions such as:

• Stone fragmentation and retrieval
• Diagnostic endoscopy
• Minor tumor resection

4.2 Cost Advantage and Operational Efficiency

ASCs operate with lower overhead costs and streamlined workflows, enabling affordable care without compromising quality. For patients, this translates to:

• Lower procedure costs
• Shorter waiting times
• Personalized care experience

For healthcare providers, ASCs represent an opportunity to decongest hospitals and expand service reach to suburban and rural populations.

4.3 Technology Accessibility

The introduction of single-use flexible ureteroscopes and portable laser units allows ASCs to perform high-precision procedures without investing heavily in sterilization or maintenance infrastructure. This democratizes access to advanced urological care.

5. Technological Innovation: The Backbone of Market Growth

Figure 3: Digital illustration of a flexible ureteroscope connecting a hospital and an ambulatory surgical center (ASC), leading to a rising arrow that represents the market growth fueled by technological innovation.

5.1 Digital and Fiberoptic Evolution

Traditional fiberoptic scopes are being replaced by digital ureteroscopes, offering superior image resolution and easy integration with hospital IT systems.
Benefits include:

• Real-time video streaming and recording
• Enhanced visualization of small lesions
• Improved accuracy in laser lithotripsy

5.2 Integration of Laser Lithotripsy

Laser lithotripsy has become the gold standard for stone fragmentation. Its integration with flexible and semi-rigid ureteroscopes ensures efficient removal of stones with minimal trauma. Hospitals and ASCs increasingly use holmium and thulium fiber lasers, known for their precision and safety.

5.3 Disposable and Single-Use Scopes

Disposable ureteroscopes eliminate the risk of cross-contamination and reduce reprocessing costs. This is particularly beneficial for ASCs, where infection control and turnaround efficiency are critical.

5.4 Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Imaging Enhancements

Emerging AI-powered visualization tools assist surgeons in identifying pathologies and optimizing procedural accuracy. Integration of AI-based image analysis, 3D navigation, and robotic assistance represents the next frontier in ureteroscopy.

6. Regional Insights: Global Expansion Trends

6.1 North America: The Market Leader

North America leads the ureteroscopy market with strong adoption driven by:

• Advanced healthcare infrastructure
• High incidence of urolithiasis (affecting ~12% of the U.S. population)
• Favorable reimbursement policies
• Presence of key players such as Boston Scientific and Stryker

Hospitals in the U.S. and Canada are increasingly incorporating digital endoscopy platforms, while ASCs dominate in cost-effective outpatient stone management.

6.2 Europe: Innovation and Aging Population

Europe shows robust growth driven by technological innovation and an aging demographic more prone to urinary disorders. Germany, France, and the UK are key markets emphasizing laser integration and single-use ureteroscopes. Hospitals collaborate with device manufacturers for clinical trials and regulatory validation.

6.3 Asia-Pacific: The Fastest-Growing Region

Asia-Pacific is the most dynamic region, propelled by:

• Increasing kidney stone prevalence in India and China
• Expanding healthcare investments and insurance coverage
• Rising medical tourism and patient awareness

Hospitals in India and China are adopting cost-effective semi-rigid ureteroscopes, while Japan leads in digital device adoption. Governments’ focus on upgrading tertiary care hospitals accelerates market growth.

6.4 Latin America and Middle East & Africa

These regions are witnessing gradual adoption with infrastructure improvements in urban hospitals. Public–private partnerships and healthcare reforms are enabling equipment access and training initiatives for urologists, strengthening long-term growth prospects.

7. Competitive Landscape

The market remains highly competitive and innovation-driven. Key companies focus on:

• Product portfolio expansion
• Strategic mergers and acquisitions
• R&D investments for imaging, flexibility, and durability

Leading Players

• Stryker Corporation – Offers advanced ureteroscopes with integrated imaging systems.
• Olympus Corporation – Leader in endoscopy with digital and fiberoptic innovations.
• Boston Scientific Corporation – Pioneers in disposable ureteroscopes and laser lithotripsy devices.
• KARL STORZ SE & Co. KG – Renowned for precision-engineered reusable ureteroscopes.

Emerging Trends

• Development of eco-friendly disposable scopes
• Integration of AI-based visualization tools
• Focus on ergonomic design for surgeon comfort and precision

Collaborations between hospitals and manufacturers for clinical validation trials and training programs are accelerating adoption globally.

8. Market Restraints and Challenges

Despite rapid growth, the market faces notable barriers:

• High equipment and maintenance costs, especially for flexible scopes
• Limited durability of delicate flexible instruments
• Training requirements for new technologies
• Cost sensitivity in emerging economies

ASCs and smaller hospitals often struggle to maintain multiple devices, leading to budget constraints that can slow down adoption.

9. Future Outlook: Toward Smarter and More Accessible Ureteroscopy

9.1 Integration of Robotics and AI

The future of ureteroscopy lies in robotic-assisted systems that enhance precision and ergonomics. Coupled with AI-powered imaging, these innovations promise greater diagnostic accuracy and surgical efficiency.

9.2 Sustainable Healthcare Models

The rise of disposable ureteroscopes and recycling programs aligns with hospitals’ sustainability goals. This trend reduces infection risk and addresses environmental concerns associated with reprocessing chemicals.

9.3 Accessibility and Affordability

Emerging economies are expected to bridge the accessibility gap through:

• Government healthcare investments
• Public-private partnerships
• Local manufacturing of cost-effective scopes

9.4 Expanding Role of ASCs

ASCs will continue to expand, supported by patient preference for same-day procedures and insurance coverage for outpatient urology. Their growth will redefine the delivery model of minimally invasive care.

Conclusion

The growth of the Flexible and Semi-Rigid Ureteroscopy Market is intricately tied to the strategic role of hospitals and Ambulatory Surgical Canters. Hospitals drive technological adoption, innovation, and clinical excellence, while ASCs expand accessibility and affordability of urological care. Together, they form a dual engine propelling the global shift toward minimally invasive, patient-centric treatment models.

With continued advances in digital imaging, laser integration, and single-use scopes, the market’s trajectory remains robust. As major players like Stryker, Olympus, Boston Scientific, and KARL STORZ invest in next-generation technologies, the future of ureteroscopy promises enhanced precision, safety, and accessibility  transforming urological care for millions worldwide.

Source: Flexible and Semi-Rigid Ureteroscopy Market Size, Share and Forecast 2032