MR Imaging in Neurosurgery Market - Global Industry Size, Share, Trends, Opportunity, and Forecast, Segmented By Type (Conventional MR Imaging Devices v/s Robotic-Assisted MR Imaging Devices), By Product (Systems, Instruments & Accessories), By End User (Hospitals & Clinics, Ambulatory Surgical Center, Others), By Region and Competition, 2020-2030F

Market Overview

The Global MR Imaging in Neurosurgery Market was valued at USD 914.26 million in 2024 and is expected to reach USD 1348.16 million by 2030 with a CAGR of 6.69% during the forecast period. The global market for MR Imaging in Neurosurgery is experiencing significant growth, driven by the growing prevalence of neurological conditions, rising awareness, and extensive development in technology are propelling the growth of the market. MR imaging has become the main imaging modality in the evaluation of brain cancers. Neurosurgeons count on MRI technology to achieve accurate pictures of the brain that help them in removing as well as treating brain tumors and other conditions such as epilepsy. The other factors supporting the market’s growth are, rise in R&D activities, increasing favorable government funding, rising preference for minimally invasive surgeries, the rising healthcare expenditure in developed and developing economies, rise in aging population base, growing demand for intraoperative imaging, growing number of mergers and strategic acquisitions, and rise in technological advancements in the field of robotics and medical imaging.

Key Market Drivers

Rising Prevalence of Neurological Disorders

The increasing prevalence of neurological disorders is a key driver for the demand of MR imaging in neurosurgery. Disorders such as brain tumors, epilepsy, Parkinson’s disease, and Alzheimer’s disease require accurate diagnosis and surgical planning, where MR imaging plays a central role. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), neurological disorders affect nearly one in three people at some point in their lives, and the burden is expected to rise with aging populations. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) also reports that stroke remains one of the leading causes of long-term disability in the United States, requiring neurosurgical intervention in many cases. MR imaging provides real-time, high-resolution brain visualization, which helps neurosurgeons perform safer and more precise procedures. This clinical importance has positioned MR imaging as an indispensable tool, and the rising patient pool is fueling consistent market growth worldwide.

Technological Advancements in Imaging Systems

Technological progress has been another strong driver in shaping the MR imaging in neurosurgery market. Innovations such as intraoperative MR imaging (iMRI), which allows real-time imaging during surgical procedures, have revolutionized neurosurgical practices. This significantly reduces the chances of incomplete tumor resections or surgical errors. Governments and research institutions are investing in such innovations. For instance, the U.S. National Institutes of Health (NIH) has significantly funded projects for advanced neuroimaging technologies aimed at improving outcomes for brain tumor and epilepsy patients. Similarly, European healthcare systems are encouraging the adoption of cutting-edge imaging tools through funding programs to enhance surgical precision. As these technologies continue to advance, neurosurgeons are more equipped to handle complex cases, reducing post-surgery complications and improving patient recovery. This strong push for innovation directly accelerates the demand for MR imaging solutions in neurosurgery.

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Key Market Challenges

High Costs and Limited Accessibility

One of the major challenges faced by this market is the high cost of MR imaging equipment and procedures, which limit accessibility, especially in low- and middle-income countries. An intraoperative MR imaging system can cost several million dollars, excluding installation and maintenance expenses. According to the World Bank, over 50% of low-income countries still face critical gaps in advanced diagnostic imaging infrastructure, leading to unequal access to high-quality neurosurgical care. Patients in rural and underdeveloped areas are particularly disadvantaged, as MR imaging facilities are mostly concentrated in urban hospitals. This cost barrier not only limits the adoption of advanced imaging technologies but also widens the global healthcare disparity. Even in developed nations, healthcare systems face financial strain when adopting high-end MR imaging for all neurosurgical cases, slowing down universal adoption.

Shortage of Skilled Professionals

Another critical challenge is the shortage of skilled professionals capable of operating advanced MR imaging systems and integrating them into neurosurgical workflows. Neurosurgeons, radiologists, and imaging technicians require specialized training to use intraoperative MR imaging effectively. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), there is an estimated global shortage of 7.2 million healthcare professionals, and this gap is projected to rise to nearly 13 million by 2035. In many regions, especially in Asia and Africa, there are not enough trained neurosurgeons and imaging specialists to meet growing demand. Even in high-income countries, the integration of advanced imaging into surgical practice requires continuous training programs, which can be resource intensive. Without sufficient skilled manpower, hospitals face challenges in fully leveraging MR imaging technologies, ultimately limiting their clinical impact despite rising demand.

Key Market Trends

Growing Adoption of Intraoperative Imaging

A major trend in this market is the growing adoption of intraoperative MR imaging (iMRI) systems. Unlike conventional imaging performed before or after surgery, iMRI provides real-time imaging during neurosurgical procedures, enabling surgeons to confirm complete tumor removal or precise electrode placement in cases like epilepsy surgery. Hospitals in developed regions are increasingly adopting iMRI suites, supported by government healthcare investments. For instance, the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (HHS) has encouraged advanced imaging integration to improve surgical safety and outcomes. In Europe, healthcare systems in countries like Germany and the UK are incorporating intraoperative imaging into neurosurgery programs. This trend is expected to expand as more clinical evidence demonstrates improved patient outcomes, fewer repeat surgeries, and overall cost-effectiveness in the long term.

Integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in MR Imaging

The integration of artificial intelligence into MR imaging represents another significant trend. AI-powered imaging tools can automate segmentation, highlight abnormal brain regions, and assist surgeons in planning and executing complex neurosurgical procedures. Governments and public research bodies are funding AI initiatives in healthcare to enhance diagnostic accuracy. For example, the European Commission has invested heavily in AI-driven healthcare projects, with neuroimaging being a key focus area. Similarly, the U.S. NIH BRAIN Initiative has prioritized AI and machine learning tools for brain imaging research. The combination of MR imaging and AI not only enhances precision but also reduces the workload on radiologists and neurosurgeons, addressing part of the skilled labor shortage challenge. This technological convergence is rapidly shaping the future of MR imaging in neurosurgery, making it a crucial market trend.

Segmental Insights

Type Insights

Based on Type, Conventional MR imaging devices currently hold the largest market share. This dominance can be attributed to their widespread availability, established clinical reliability, and lower acquisition costs compared to newer robotic-assisted systems. Conventional MR imaging has been the backbone of neurosurgical planning and intraoperative guidance for decades, and hospitals across both developed and developing countries continue to rely heavily on these devices due to their proven accuracy and broad clinical acceptance. Government health agencies and public hospitals especially favor conventional MR imaging systems because they are more cost-effective and can be integrated into existing hospital infrastructure without requiring highly specialized training. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 70% of low- and middle-income countries face barriers in accessing advanced medical technologies due to high costs. As a result, conventional MR imaging remains the most practical option in these regions, further consolidating its dominant market position.

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Regional Insights

Based on region, North America accounts for the largest share of the global MR imaging in neurosurgery market, largely due to its advanced healthcare infrastructure, high prevalence of neurological conditions, and strong government support for adoption of medical technology. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), nearly one in six people in the United States live with a neurological disorder, ranging from epilepsy and brain tumors to Parkinson’s disease and stroke. These conditions often require precise neurosurgical interventions, where MR imaging plays an essential role in improving surgical safety and patient outcomes. The region’s dominance is further strengthened by the availability of highly specialized neurosurgeons, well-equipped hospitals, and extensive research programs. The National Institutes of Health (NIH) in the U.S. allocates billions of dollars annually to neuroscience research, including advanced imaging technologies designed to enhance surgical accuracy. Similarly, Canadian healthcare institutions have been early adopters of intraoperative MR imaging (iMRI), supported by public healthcare funding.

Recent Developments

• In March 2025, Polarean Imaging plc expanded its Xenon MRI imaging platform to support pharma-sponsored research. This expansion, in partnership with VIDA Diagnostics, included the introduction of a new service model to enable the use of the device in enhanced research applications.
• In October 2023, Siemens Healthineers and Cardiff University formed a strategic partnership to advance medical technologies, building on their decade-long collaboration in diagnostics. The partnership focuses on imaging research and precision diagnostics, with Cardiff’s Brain Research Imaging Centre (CUBRIC) driving innovation in MR technology and brain mapping.
• In June 2023, Imagion Biosystems Limited expanded its collaboration with Siemens Healthineers, extending its existing agreement with Siemens Healthcare Pty Ltd in Australia for 2 more years. The partnership now includes collaboration in the U.S. through Siemens Medical Solutions USA.
• In April 2023, Siemens Healthineers expanded its manufacturing presence in India by launching an MRI facility in Bengaluru, supported by the Government of India’s PLI scheme. The company has also introduced a new production line at the Bengaluru facility for manufacturing MRI machines.

Key Market Players

• Aspect Imaging Ltd.
• Brainlab AG
• Canon Inc.
• AiM Medical Robotics
• Esaote S.p.A
• Deerfield Management Company
• Fonar Corporation
• Fujifilm Holdings Corporation
•  Koninklijke Philips N.V.
• Medtronic plc

Report Scope:

In this report, the Global MR Imaging in Neurosurgery Market has been segmented into the following categories, in addition to the industry trends which have also been detailed below:

• MR Imaging in Neurosurgery Market, By Type:

o   Conventional MR Imaging Devices

o   Robotic-Assisted MR Imaging Devices

• MR Imaging in Neurosurgery Market, By Product:

o   Systems

o   Instruments & Accessories

• MR Imaging in Neurosurgery Market, By End User:

o   Hospitals & Clinics

o   Ambulatory Surgical Center

o   Others

• MR Imaging in Neurosurgery Market, By Region:

o   North America

§  United States

§  Mexico

§  Canada

o   Europe

§  France

§  Germany

§  United Kingdom

§  Italy

§  Spain

o   Asia-Pacific

§  China

§  India

§  South Korea

§  Japan

§  Australia

o   South America

§  Brazil

§  Argentina

§  Colombia

o   Middle East and Africa

§  South Africa

§  Saudi Arabia

§  UAE

Competitive Landscape

Company Profiles: Detailed analysis of the major companies presents in the Global MR Imaging in Neurosurgery Market.

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Company Information

• Detailed analysis and profiling of additional market players (up to five).

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