Fixed and Mobile C-Arms Market By Product Type (Fixed C-Arms, Mobile C-Arms [Full-Size, Mini]); By Application (Orthopedic and Trauma Surgeries, Cardiovascular, Gastrointestinal, Neurological, Urological, Pain Management, Others); By End User (Hospitals, Ambulatory Surgical Centers, Specialty Clinics, Academic and Research Institutes); By Geography, Segment Revenue Estimation, Forecast, 2024–2030.

1. Introduction and Strategic Context

The Global Fixed and Mobile C-Arms Market will witness a robust CAGR of 6.3% , valued at $3.1 billion in 2024 , and is expected to appreciate and reach around $4.46 billion by 2030 , confirms Strategic Market Research.

 

C-arms—named for their characteristic C-shaped arm—are advanced imaging systems used primarily in intraoperative surgical imaging. This market comprises two main device types: fixed C-arms , typically installed in hybrid operating rooms or radiology suites, and mobile C-arms , which offer flexibility and real-time imaging support across various surgical settings including orthopedics, trauma, cardiology, and urology.

 

In 2024, the strategic relevance of this market is underpinned by rising global surgical volumes, increasing demand for minimally invasive procedures, and the integration of high-resolution digital imaging technologies. Notably, the resurgence in elective surgeries post-COVID-19 has further accelerated adoption in outpatient and ambulatory surgical centers.

 

Key macro forces driving market growth include:

• Technological Advancements : Innovations such as flat-panel detectors, 3D rotational angiography, and AI-powered imaging software are transforming the diagnostic capabilities of C-arms.

• Regulatory Support : Streamlined FDA approvals and updated imaging standards from bodies like the IEC (International Electrotechnical Commission) have fostered product development and commercialization.

• Rising Geriatric Population : With a growing elderly demographic worldwide, there is a parallel increase in musculoskeletal disorders, cardiovascular diseases, and spinal injuries— conditions often managed surgically with intraoperative imaging support.

• Healthcare Infrastructure Expansion : Emerging markets are investing in hospital and surgical infrastructure, particularly in Asia-Pacific and Latin America, presenting untapped opportunities for mobile C-arm adoption.

 

Major stakeholders in the market include:

• OEMs (Original Equipment Manufacturers) such as GE HealthCare , Siemens Healthineers , and Ziehm Imaging

• Healthcare providers including multi-specialty hospitals, ambulatory surgical centers (ASCs), and orthopedic clinics

• Government agencies focused on surgical safety, radiation control, and healthcare modernization

• Private equity firms and venture capitalists investing in medtech innovation and surgical robotics integration

• Distributors and service providers supporting installation, calibration, and compliance management

Strategically, C-arms are becoming indispensable across surgical disciplines, not only for real-time guidance but also for their role in minimizing complications and reducing operative time.

 

2. Market Segmentation and Forecast Scope

The global fixed and mobile C-arms market can be segmented based on product type , application , end user , and geography . These dimensions reflect both the clinical diversity and technological advancements driving the use of C-arm systems globally.

By Product Type

• Fixed C-Arms

• Mobile C-Arms

• Full-Size Mobile C-Arms

• Mini C-Arms

Fixed C-arms remain dominant in large hospitals and tertiary care centers due to their superior imaging power and integration into hybrid OR setups. However, mobile C-arms , particularly mini C-arms , are gaining traction in outpatient settings for orthopedic and extremity imaging because of their portability and lower footprint. In 2024, mobile C-arms account for approximately 58% of global shipments , owing to their flexibility and ease of installation.

Mini C-arms are emerging as the fastest-growing sub-segment , driven by rising adoption in orthopedic and sports medicine clinics in both developed and emerging markets.

By Application

• Orthopedic and Trauma Surgeries

• Cardiovascular Procedures

• Gastrointestinal Procedures

• Neurological Surgeries

• Urological Procedures

• Pain Management

• Others

Orthopedic and trauma surgeries hold the largest revenue share in 2024, supported by rising sports injuries and the global rise in osteoporosis and arthritis. However, cardiovascular procedures are expected to register the fastest CAGR due to the rising prevalence of coronary artery disease and increased deployment of hybrid cath labs.

By End User

• Hospitals

• Ambulatory Surgical Centers (ASCs)

• Specialty Clinics

• Academic and Research Institutes

Hospitals dominate the market, contributing to more than 60% of global revenue in 2024, primarily due to their access to funding, infrastructure, and skilled personnel. However, ambulatory surgical centers (ASCs) are becoming critical demand centers for mobile C-arms, driven by cost-efficiency and same-day procedures.

By Region

• North America

• Europe

• Asia Pacific

• Latin America

• Middle East & Africa (MEA)

North America leads in market share, driven by a mature surgical ecosystem and rapid adoption of image-guided procedures. However, Asia Pacific is poised to witness the highest CAGR during the forecast period, fueled by expanding healthcare access, aging populations, and government investments in digital radiology.

Strategically, segmentation highlights the transition of C-arm usage from centralized tertiary care centers to more agile and decentralized care models, particularly in orthopedic and cardiovascular domains.

 

3. Market Trends and Innovation Landscape

The fixed and mobile C-arms market is undergoing a rapid transformation, propelled by continuous advancements in imaging technologies, integration with digital ecosystems, and procedural demands for precision and real-time feedback. As healthcare providers transition to more value-based care models, manufacturers are embedding greater intelligence, automation, and interoperability into C-arm systems.

Technological Innovations

One of the defining trends is the shift from image intensifier-based C-arms to flat-panel detector (FPD) systems . FPD-based systems offer superior image clarity, reduced radiation exposure, and better soft tissue contrast. This is particularly critical in neurovascular and spinal procedures, where sub-millimeter accuracy is required.

Another pivotal innovation is the rise of 3D imaging and intraoperative navigation . Advanced C-arms are now equipped to generate real-time 3D reconstructions during surgeries, especially in orthopedic trauma, enabling surgeons to confirm alignment and fixation before wound closure. These capabilities are being widely adopted in hybrid OR setups , especially in high-acuity hospitals in North America and Europe.

AI and Digital Integration

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is playing an increasingly strategic role in dose optimization , auto-positioning , and image post-processing . Smart algorithms help reduce technician errors and ensure consistent image quality across operators. Moreover, vendors are integrating C-arms into hospital PACS (Picture Archiving and Communication Systems) and surgical navigation platforms , enhancing procedural documentation and compliance.

According to radiological experts, AI-enabled C-arms are expected to become mainstream by 2027, especially in high-volume surgical centers where imaging consistency and workflow speed are mission-critical.

Mergers, Collaborations, and Pipeline Expansion

The competitive landscape is also being reshaped through strategic collaborations:

• GE HealthCare has focused on software-centric upgrades to improve workflow and integrate its C-arms with anesthesia and robotic systems.

• Ziehm Imaging has partnered with software vendors to develop real-time dose monitoring solutions and predictive maintenance modules.

• Siemens Healthineers has invested in smart OR integration, enabling synchronized use of C-arms, endoscopes, and patient vitals through a single interface.

Meanwhile, emerging medtech players are innovating in low-cost mini C-arms , targeting resource-constrained markets like Southeast Asia and Latin America, where orthopedic surgical volumes are high but imaging access remains uneven.

The Future Outlook

The next phase of innovation is expected to center on mobility, cloud integration, and procedural AI. Mobile C-arms with lightweight design, lithium battery support, and wireless transmission will allow greater intra-hospital mobility and emergency use. Moreover, real-time data analytics will support surgical decision-making and post-procedural quality audits.

Experts foresee a convergence of C-arm technology with robotics and augmented reality, where the imaging device not only captures visuals but actively guides the surgeon during complex interventions.

 

4. Competitive Intelligence and Benchmarking

The fixed and mobile C-arms market is moderately consolidated, with a mix of multinational medtech giants and specialized imaging solution providers. Competitive differentiation hinges on imaging quality, system mobility, AI capabilities, radiation safety, and regional service infrastructure. Players are intensifying R&D and geographic expansion to secure strongholds in high-growth segments such as mobile C-arms and hybrid operating rooms.

Below are seven leading players shaping the global landscape:

GE HealthCare

As a long-standing leader in medical imaging, GE HealthCare offers a comprehensive range of mobile C-arm systems with advanced digital detectors and AI-driven workflow automation. The company’s strategy emphasizes modular upgrades , allowing institutions to evolve systems without full replacements. Its global footprint spans over 100 countries, and its strength lies in deep hospital integration and cross-modality ecosystem compatibility.

Siemens Healthineers

Siemens Healthineers dominates the fixed C-arm segment, particularly in neurovascular and cardiology applications . It leverages strong capabilities in angiographic imaging and 3D reconstruction , making it a preferred brand for hybrid OR installations. The company is also investing heavily in remote diagnostics , enabling real-time service support and uptime guarantees for high-utilization hospitals.

Ziehm Imaging

A specialist in mobile C-arms, Ziehm Imaging is known for its compact and high-resolution systems. It has pioneered several industry-firsts, including fully digital mini C-arms and intelligent dose reduction software . With a focused portfolio, Ziehm has developed niche leadership among orthopedic and trauma centers in both developed and emerging markets.

Canon Medical Systems

Through strong acquisitions and organic innovation, Canon Medical has extended its portfolio into the mobile surgical imaging space. Its C-arm units are appreciated for quiet operation, integrated storage solutions , and multi-purpose imaging capabilities . Canon’s strategy involves bundling C-arms with CT and MRI contracts for institutional buyers, enhancing its cross-modality market capture.

Philips Healthcare

Philips Healthcare combines surgical imaging with smart OR integration. Its C-arm systems are often sold in tandem with surgical display suites , navigation systems , and robotic catheterization platforms . Philips stands out for its emphasis on low-dose imaging and AI-enhanced contrast control , particularly in vascular and gastrointestinal procedures.

Hologic , Inc.

Focusing mainly on mini C-arm systems, Hologic serves the orthopedic and extremity imaging segment. Its strength lies in compact design, mobility , and high-contrast bone imaging , making it a go-to choice for outpatient orthopedic clinics. The company leverages a lean pricing strategy to penetrate mid-tier hospitals and private surgical centers in the U.S. and Europe.

Shimadzu Corporation

Shimadzu maintains a strong presence in Asia, offering fixed and mobile imaging solutions tailored for high-volume hospitals. Known for its cost-effective systems with basic digital upgrades , Shimadzu primarily competes on value engineering and post-sale technical support , particularly in price-sensitive markets across Southeast Asia, India, and Latin America.

Strategically, leading vendors are emphasizing modularity, software-driven enhancements, and AI augmentation to stay competitive. As healthcare systems transition toward ambulatory care and minimally invasive surgery, compact and interoperable C-arm systems are emerging as high-demand assets.

 

5. Regional Landscape and Adoption Outlook

The fixed and mobile C-arms market demonstrates distinct regional dynamics shaped by healthcare infrastructure maturity, surgical volumes, regulatory landscapes, and capital investment patterns. While North America and Europe currently lead in revenue, Asia Pacific and Latin America present the highest future growth potential.

North America

North America—led by the United States —is the most mature market, with a dominant share in both fixed and mobile C-arms . The U.S. has high surgical volumes across orthopedics, cardiovascular, and spine procedures, backed by world-class healthcare facilities and widespread adoption of hybrid operating rooms.

The region benefits from:

• Advanced surgical imaging infrastructure

• Strong reimbursement mechanisms for image-guided procedures

• Continued innovation by domestic OEMs like GE HealthCare and Hologic

Furthermore, there is growing demand for AI-integrated mobile C-arms in ambulatory surgical centers (ASCs), which are rising in number due to cost and efficiency benefits.

Europe

Europe is the second-largest market, with Germany, France, and the UK leading adoption. The region is known for early uptake of radiation safety technologies , such as automatic exposure control and dose monitoring. National healthcare systems often fund large-scale procurement of fixed imaging systems, especially in teaching hospitals and trauma centers.

However, aging surgical infrastructure and slow bureaucratic processes can delay the procurement of newer mobile systems. Still, Scandinavia and Western Europe are transitioning toward minimally invasive surgery workflows, increasing the demand for compact, flexible mobile C-arms .

Asia Pacific

Asia Pacific is the fastest-growing region , driven by:

• Rapid expansion of healthcare infrastructure

• High surgical demand due to aging populations and rising road traffic injuries

• Government initiatives promoting radiology modernization

China, India, and Japan are the major contributors. China leads in local manufacturing and cost-efficient procurement, while India shows strong uptake in private multispecialty hospitals. Japan is driving innovation in hybrid surgical suites.

Asia Pacific represents a major white space for mobile and mini C-arms, particularly in secondary cities and regional hospitals that lack high-end fixed imaging equipment but face a growing need for intraoperative imaging.

Latin America

Latin America is steadily gaining attention, with Brazil and Mexico emerging as anchor markets. Despite economic volatility, regional demand is fueled by increasing investments in trauma care and diagnostic imaging access. However, challenges remain in terms of regulatory delays and limited technical workforce for advanced imaging.

Some vendors are addressing these gaps through service leasing models and portable mobile C-arm deployments in rural and semi-urban healthcare setups.

Middle East & Africa (MEA)

This is the most underpenetrated region but holds long-term potential. Saudi Arabia and the UAE are investing in medical tourism and hospital modernization, while South Africa and Egypt are focal points for orthopedic and urology imaging. However, import restrictions, budget limitations, and weak training infrastructure constrain widespread adoption.

Still, select urban hospitals are investing in refurbished or entry-tier mobile C-arms to enable trauma and pain management surgeries, especially in post-accident emergency care.

In summary, while North America and Europe will sustain their technological edge, future growth will be shaped by rising access, affordability, and mobile imaging needs in Asia Pacific and Latin America. Regional customization, technical support, and financing models will be critical for vendors to succeed in emerging markets.

 

6. End-User Dynamics and Use Case

The fixed and mobile C-arms market serves a diverse range of end users—each with distinct procurement priorities, imaging needs, and workflow integration requirements. The shift toward outpatient care, minimally invasive surgery, and intraoperative imaging is redefining the role of C-arms across healthcare delivery models.

Hospitals

Large hospitals and tertiary care centers are the primary users of fixed C-arms , particularly in departments such as cardiology, neurology, orthopedics, and vascular surgery. These facilities prefer high-throughput systems integrated with hybrid ORs , often deploying multiple C-arm units in specialized suites.

Hospitals prioritize:

• High-resolution 3D imaging for complex procedures

• Integration with PACS and surgical navigation platforms

• Automated radiation dose management systems

They also benefit from vendor-driven extended service contracts and modular system upgrades , making them ideal candidates for premium C-arm configurations.

Ambulatory Surgical Centers (ASCs)

ASCs represent a rapidly growing segment for mobile C-arms , especially in the U.S., Europe, and increasingly Asia. With an emphasis on outpatient procedures such as orthopedic fixation, pain management, and urological interventions, these centers require compact, cost-effective, and portable imaging solutions.

ASCs focus on:

• Short setup and calibration time

• Compact form factors for tight surgical suites

• Battery-powered or semi-portable systems for procedural flexibility

As minimally invasive procedures continue to rise, ASCs are becoming one of the most dynamic drivers of mobile C-arm demand worldwide.

Specialty Clinics

Orthopedic, pain management, and sports medicine clinics are prominent buyers of mini C-arms . These units are especially useful for extremity imaging in outpatient settings, where quick turnaround and diagnostic clarity are critical.

In these clinics, mini C-arms are valued for:

• Point-of-care imaging

• Low radiation exposure, particularly in pediatric orthopedics

• Simple operation without need for radiology technician oversight

Their affordability and reduced space requirements make them ideal for private practices in urban and suburban areas , particularly in developed economies.

Academic and Research Institutions

Universities and teaching hospitals utilize both mobile and fixed C-arms for training, procedural research, and medical imaging studies . These institutions often seek vendor collaboration for beta-testing or deploying next-generation features , such as AI-enhanced imaging or AR-guided surgical overlays.

? Use Case: Orthopedic Surgery in a South Korean Tertiary Hospital

A tertiary hospital in Seoul, South Korea, recently transitioned from traditional fixed imaging to mobile C-arm systems in its orthopedic unit. The goal was to reduce procedure prep time and increase surgical turnover in its five ORs. The hospital installed three AI-enabled mobile C-arms equipped with automated image calibration and wireless PACS connectivity. Post-implementation data revealed a 21% reduction in average procedure time and a 15% decrease in patient radiation exposure. Moreover, orthopedic residents reported improved training outcomes due to real-time image capture during fracture fixation and implant positioning.

This use case highlights how mobile C-arms are not only tools for imaging but also clinical enablers that support faster procedures, safer outcomes, and enhanced medical training.

 

7. Recent Developments + Opportunities & Restraints

Recent Developments (Last 2 Years)

The fixed and mobile C-arms market has seen notable activity in technology upgrades, strategic alliances, and regulatory approvals aimed at enhancing imaging accuracy, portability, and intraoperative efficiency.

• Siemens Healthineers launched a new generation of mobile C-arms with integrated 3D imaging capabilities and AI-powered exposure controls (2023). These systems are designed to improve workflow and radiation management during complex orthopedic and cardiovascular procedures.

• GE HealthCare unveiled its OEC 3D mobile C-arm platform , featuring real-time 3D reconstruction and low-dose protocols for spinal surgeries (2024). The launch supports the company’s strategy to expand into ambulatory surgical centers and hybrid ORs.

• Ziehm Imaging entered a partnership with Brainlab to co-develop C-arm-compatible surgical navigation tools, aimed at enhancing neurosurgical precision (2023). The integration supports 3D spatial mapping and image-guided interventions.

• Canon Medical Systems received CE Mark approval for a new mobile C-arm line designed for emerging markets, featuring modular batteries and compact designs for remote surgical environments (2024).

• Philips Healthcare introduced a cloud-connected imaging interface for its mobile C-arms, allowing real-time PACS uploads and AI-based post-processing analytics, accelerating post-surgical diagnostics and compliance workflows (2023).

 

Opportunities

• Surge in Outpatient Procedures : The rise of ambulatory surgical centers globally presents a major opportunity for mobile and mini C-arms that prioritize space efficiency and cost-effectiveness without compromising image quality.

• AI-Enabled Imaging Optimization : There is significant headroom for growth in AI applications for auto-positioning, radiation dose control, and real-time anatomical recognition, especially in high-throughput centers.

• Expansion in Emerging Economies : Investments in secondary hospitals across Southeast Asia, Latin America, and Africa are creating demand for low-cost, rugged C-arm systems with basic digital functionality and long service life.

 

Restraints

• High Capital Costs : Despite the clinical utility, C-arm systems—especially 3D and fixed configurations—remain expensive to procure and maintain, posing challenges for smaller clinics and rural hospitals.

• Shortage of Trained Radiology Technicians : In many emerging markets, adoption is limited by a lack of skilled professionals capable of operating and maintaining advanced imaging systems, slowing utilization despite rising availability.

The industry’s next wave of growth will hinge on strategic pricing models, AI democratization, and vendor partnerships aimed at lowering entry barriers in underpenetrated regions.

 

Report Coverage Table

Report Attribute	Details
Forecast Period	2024 – 2030
Market Size Value in 2024	USD 3.1 Billion
Revenue Forecast in 2030	USD 4.46 Billion
Overall Growth Rate	CAGR of 6.3% (2024 – 2030)
Base Year for Estimation	2023
Historical Data	2017 – 2021
Unit	USD Million, CAGR (2024 – 2030)
Segmentation	By Product Type, By Application, By End User, By Geography
By Product Type	Fixed C-Arms, Mobile C-Arms (Full-Size, Mini)
By Application	Orthopedic and Trauma Surgeries, Cardiovascular, Gastrointestinal, Neurological, Urological, Pain Management, Others
By End User	Hospitals, ASCs, Specialty Clinics, Academic and Research Institutes
By Region	North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East & Africa
Country Scope	U.S., UK, Germany, China, India, Japan, Brazil, South Korea, UAE
Market Drivers	- Rise in outpatient surgeries - AI integration in imaging - Aging global population
Customization Option	Available upon request