Open MRI Systems Market By Type (Permanent Magnet, Superconducting); By Field Strength (Low-Field, Mid-Field, High-Field); By Application (Neurology, Orthopedics, Cardiology, Oncology, Others); By End User (Hospitals, Diagnostic Imaging Centers, ASCs, Academic & Research Institutes); By Geography, Segment Revenue Estimation, Forecast, 2024–2030

Introduction And Strategic Context

The Global Open MRI Systems Market will witness a robust CAGR of 8.2 % , valued at $2.14 billion in 2024 , and is expected to appreciate and reach approximately $ 3.43 billion by 2030 , confirms Strategic Market Research.

 

Open MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) systems are advanced diagnostic tools designed to accommodate patients who require greater comfort and accessibility during imaging procedures. Unlike traditional closed MRI machines, open MRI systems offer a more spacious, less claustrophobic environment, which is particularly beneficial for pediatric , elderly, and bariatric populations, as well as patients with anxiety disorders.

 

Strategically, the growth trajectory of the open MRI market is anchored in several macro forces:

• Demographic Shifts : An aging global population is accelerating the incidence of musculoskeletal, neurological, and oncological conditions—diseases that rely heavily on precision diagnostics.

• Healthcare Personalization : Increasing demand for tailored patient experiences is pushing providers to adopt technologies that improve comfort and reduce procedural stress.

• Technological Evolution : Advances in imaging quality, resolution, and digital integration (including AI-assisted diagnostics) have mitigated earlier limitations associated with open MRI systems.

• Regulatory Tailwinds : Supportive policies and reimbursement guidelines in North America and Europe have encouraged wider institutional procurement of open MRI devices.

Moreover, healthcare providers in both developed and emerging economies are pivoting towards more inclusive imaging technologies as part of patient-centric care reforms. The shift is also driven by the growing need for ambulatory and outpatient imaging services , where open MRIs are often favored due to their operational versatility and reduced spatial footprint.

 

Key stakeholders driving this ecosystem include:

• OEMs and imaging equipment manufacturers , developing next-gen scanners with higher field strength and better resolution.

• Hospitals and imaging centers , which are increasing procurement of open MRI systems to diversify service offerings.

• Government bodies and healthcare investors , funding radiological infrastructure to expand access in underserved areas.

• Research institutions , evaluating novel clinical applications such as real-time imaging for interventional procedures.

According to expert commentary, “The open MRI systems market is undergoing a pivotal transformation—from an alternative solution to a mainstream preference for non-acute, high-volume diagnostic centers globally.”

With technological barriers continuing to fall, and healthcare systems prioritizing inclusivity and procedural efficiency, the strategic relevance of open MRI systems will only deepen over the forecast period.

 

Market Segmentation And Forecast Scope

The open MRI systems market is structured around four primary segmentation axes: by Type , by Field Strength , by Application , and by End User . These categories define the commercial and clinical landscape across multiple care settings and help identify the most strategic growth opportunities.

By Type

• Permanent Magnet Open MRI Systems

• Superconducting Open MRI Systems

Permanent magnet systems dominate the market in 2024 , accounting for an estimated 62% share , largely due to their lower maintenance requirements, compactness, and cost-effectiveness. However, superconducting open MRI systems are projected to be the fastest-growing segment through 2030 as newer models bridge the gap between open architecture and high-field imaging performance.

 

By Field Strength

• Low-Field (Below 0.3T)

• Mid-Field (0.3T–1.0T)

• High-Field (Above 1.0T)

Mid-field MRI systems currently lead in volume and installations due to a favorable trade-off between image clarity and affordability. However, high-field open MRI systems are emerging as a strategic frontier, particularly in neurological and oncological applications , where imaging detail is critical.

 

By Application

• Neurology

• Orthopedics

• Cardiology

• Oncology

• Others (Abdominal, Pelvic, etc.)

Orthopedic applications are projected to remain dominant through the forecast period, fueled by an aging population and a global rise in sports-related injuries. Meanwhile, neurology is anticipated to exhibit the highest growth rate, especially as AI-enhanced open MRI systems become integral in early-stage neurodegenerative disease detection.

 

By End User

• Hospitals

• Diagnostic Imaging Centers

• Ambulatory Surgical Centers

• Academic & Research Institutes

Hospitals represent the largest share in 2024; however, diagnostic imaging centers are expected to grow fastest due to increasing investments in decentralized radiology infrastructure and outpatient diagnostic services.

 

By Region

• North America

• Europe

• Asia Pacific

• LAMEA (Latin America, Middle East & Africa)

Each regional market is influenced by a distinct set of factors—ranging from reimbursement environments to healthcare infrastructure availability. More on this will be explored in the regional section.

Expert insight: “Segment-level targeting will be critical in open MRI commercialization strategy—especially as outpatient diagnostic centers and AI-enabled workflow integrations become the norm.”

 

Market Trends And Innovation Landscape

The open MRI systems market is in the midst of a technological renaissance, fueled by innovations that are reshaping product performance, clinical applicability, and user experience. From the digitization of imaging workflows to the integration of AI and next-gen materials, the innovation landscape is both broad and deeply transformative.

1. AI-Enhanced Imaging and Decision Support

Open MRI systems are increasingly embedded with AI-driven algorithms for image reconstruction, noise reduction, and anomaly detection. This enables lower-field strength machines to produce diagnostically equivalent results to higher-field systems, expanding their use in critical specialties such as neurology and oncology.

“Artificial intelligence is rapidly offsetting the diagnostic limitations of mid- and low-field MRI systems by delivering sharper images with faster scan times,” notes a leading radiology technologist at a U.S.-based university hospital.

 

2. Magnet and Material Science Advancements

New developments in cryogen-free superconducting magnets and advanced coil materials have enabled more compact, energy-efficient, and maintenance-light open MRI designs. These materials also contribute to better gradient performance, which improves image resolution and scan consistency.

 

3. Patient-Centric Engineering

Ergonomic design enhancements, such as tilted gantry systems , wider bores , and 360-degree open access , are addressing long-standing concerns over patient discomfort, especially for bariatric or claustrophobic individuals. Systems with adjustable positioning are gaining traction in pediatric and geriatric imaging departments.

 

4. Digital Integration and Remote Access

Cloud-based imaging software and Picture Archiving and Communication Systems (PACS) are now standard features in premium open MRI solutions. These platforms enable:

• Real-time scan sharing with radiologists

• Remote diagnostics

• Seamless EMR integration

This trend is crucial for rural and tier-2 medical facilities , where expert radiologists may not be locally available.

 

5. Strategic Collaborations and Innovation Pipelines

Several notable collaborations are reshaping the innovation timeline:

• Imaging OEMs partnering with AI startups to integrate decision-support tools natively into hardware.

• Universities and medical device companies co-developing open MRI prototypes for interventional procedures , such as real-time guided biopsies.

A recent trend involves pilot programs evaluating open MRI use in surgical suites , where real-time imaging is needed but space constraints rule out conventional MRI setups.

 

6. Decentralized Diagnostics and Portability

There's growing interest in mobile open MRI units , particularly in underserved regions and conflict zones. Startups are piloting portable, cart-mounted low-field MRI systems capable of producing usable scans in non-hospital environments. Though still in early stages, this could redefine access in remote areas.

Overall, the innovation roadmap for open MRI systems is accelerating toward a future where accessibility, image quality, and operational efficiency converge—empowering more inclusive and efficient diagnostics worldwide.

 

Competitive Intelligence And Benchmarking

The global open MRI systems market is moderately consolidated, with a mix of established imaging giants and specialized OEMs driving competitive activity. Companies are pursuing strategies across innovation, geographic expansion, service enhancement, and vertical integration to secure leadership positions in this evolving landscape.

1. Siemens Healthineers

Siemens Healthineers remains a dominant force, offering open MRI systems that integrate advanced coil technologies and seamless digital interfaces. The company’s strategy focuses on precision imaging and AI-assisted diagnostics , paired with vendor-neutral software solutions that appeal to multi-brand imaging environments. Its strong presence in North America and Europe is being actively expanded through installations in Southeast Asia and Latin America.

 

2. GE HealthCare

A global frontrunner, GE HealthCare emphasizes adaptive imaging technologies and patient-centric ergonomics. Their open MRI portfolio is differentiated by its focus on noise reduction and motion correction , making it particularly attractive in pediatric and geriatric care settings. GE’s strategic partnerships with academic centers aim to further advance AI-powered, low-field MRI capabilities.

 

3. Philips Healthcare

Philips Healthcare leverages its strengths in digital health integration and system modularity. The firm’s open MRI platforms are increasingly being paired with cloud-based diagnostics and tele-radiology features , making them ideal for large diagnostic chains and rural outreach programs. Philips is investing heavily in sustainability features , including energy-efficient magnet technologies and recyclable system components.

 

4. Hitachi Medical Systems (Fujifilm Healthcare)

Following its acquisition by Fujifilm, Hitachi Medical Systems has re-emerged with a renewed focus on open architecture MRI systems, particularly for emerging markets. The brand is known for its patient-friendly horizontal gantry designs , and for introducing hybrid open MRI systems that bridge the gap between open accessibility and high-field performance.

 

5. Canon Medical Systems

Canon is a rising challenger, especially in the Asia Pacific region. Their open MRI solutions integrate advanced RF coil configurations and workflow automation software , supporting high-throughput diagnostic centers . Canon’s competitive strategy centers on cost optimization and rapid installability , giving it an edge in developing economies.

 

6. Esaote SpA

 

Esaote , headquartered in Italy, specializes in compact, cost-effective imaging solutions. Their open MRI systems are particularly prevalent in orthopedic clinics and sports medicine centers , where mobility and speed are valued over high-field capabilities. Esaote is increasingly targeting outpatient imaging chains in Europe and Latin America.

 

7. Aspect Imaging

A niche innovator, Aspect Imaging is developing compact, single-use case open MRI solutions . These are designed for neonatal, veterinary, and intraoperative use , and the company’s R&D is focused on plug-and-play MRI platforms for non-traditional environments. Though early in commercial maturity, Aspect represents the cutting edge of open MRI miniaturization.

Competitive dynamics in this market hinge less on price wars and more on clinical utility, AI-readiness, and ease of integration with radiology IT systems. Players that can deliver scalable, interoperable solutions while ensuring patient comfort are best positioned to win long-term institutional partnerships.

 

Regional Landscape And Adoption Outlook

The adoption of open MRI systems varies significantly across geographies, driven by differences in healthcare infrastructure, regulatory dynamics, population health needs, and capital investment flows. While North America and Europe lead in high-tech integration and patient comfort-focused upgrades, Asia Pacific and LAMEA represent the fastest-growing markets due to infrastructure expansion and increasing diagnostic awareness.

North America

North America is the largest regional market in 2024, accounting for over 40% of the global revenue share . The region’s dominance stems from:

• A mature diagnostic imaging infrastructure

• Strong reimbursement policies from CMS and private insurers

• High awareness of patient comfort and procedural accessibility

In the United States, open MRI systems are increasingly favored by ambulatory care centers and outpatient diagnostic groups aiming to differentiate on patient experience. Canada’s public healthcare initiatives have also led to provincial investments in mid-field open MRI installations , especially in remote and indigenous communities.

 

Europe

Europe is a technologically progressive market, especially in countries such as Germany, France, and the UK , where patient- centered care is central to radiological policy. EU directives on healthcare digitization and accessibility are encouraging public-private partnerships to replace legacy MRI systems with more ergonomic alternatives.

For instance, Germany’s hospital reform agenda includes provisions for expanding advanced imaging capacity in Tier 2 cities—paving the way for open MRI adoption where space constraints and patient diversity demand it.

In Scandinavia and parts of Eastern Europe, mobile open MRI units are being deployed for seasonal and rural imaging needs , supporting greater reach at lower fixed cost.

 

Asia Pacific

Asia Pacific is the fastest-growing region , projected to expand at a CAGR of over 8% during the forecast period. Key growth drivers include:

• Expanding middle class and aging population in China and India

• Aggressive healthcare modernization in South Korea, Singapore, and Japan

• Government-backed rural imaging programs in Southeast Asia

Japan is a technological pioneer, deploying AI-integrated low-field open MRI systems in community hospitals. In contrast, India’s growth is driven by low-cost open MRI systems deployed in public hospitals and mobile diagnostic vans serving tier 2 and 3 cities.

 

LAMEA (Latin America, Middle East, and Africa)

The LAMEA region holds immense untapped potential , though it remains underpenetrated due to capital limitations and infrastructure gaps.

• Brazil and Mexico are leading the Latin American market, with government incentives and foreign OEM partnerships fostering slow but steady growth in imaging access.

• In the Middle East , Gulf countries like UAE and Saudi Arabia are upgrading radiology departments in line with national health visions—creating demand for patient-friendly imaging modalities.

• Sub-Saharan Africa is in early stages of adoption. However, pilot programs by NGOs and multilateral agencies are introducing portable open MRI units in rural clinics, especially for orthopedic and neuro assessments.

“The regional future of open MRI systems will be defined by two parallel forces: infrastructural sophistication in the West, and healthcare democratization in the East and Global South,” says a regional medical imaging strategist based in Singapore.

 

End-User Dynamics And Use Case

The deployment of open MRI systems varies widely across end users, shaped by budget flexibility, patient demographics, service models, and clinical specialization. As healthcare transitions toward more outpatient-centric and personalized care , the role of each stakeholder in the imaging value chain is evolving—often in ways that strongly favor open MRI systems.

1. Hospitals

Hospitals remain the largest end users of open MRI systems globally. These institutions prioritize:

• Broad clinical capability (neurology, cardiology, orthopedics )

• Patient diversity (elderly, pediatric , bariatric)

• 24/7 operational demand

Hospitals with high patient volumes often invest in both high-field closed and mid-field open MRI systems , using the latter for patients with claustrophobia or limited mobility. Additionally, many hospitals are now creating “comfort zones” within their diagnostic departments, integrating open MRI units to reduce scan-related anxiety and improve throughput.

 

2. Diagnostic Imaging Centers

Diagnostic imaging centers are emerging as the fastest-growing end-user segment , particularly in North America, Europe, and parts of Asia. Their preference for open MRI systems is fueled by:

• High patient turnover

• Demand for faster scan sessions

• Differentiation through patient experience

These centers often operate on tight capital budgets, making mid-field permanent magnet systems ideal. Furthermore, with the rise of AI-enabled reporting and teleradiology, centers are increasingly investing in cloud-integrated open MRI systems that support asynchronous workflows.

 

3. Ambulatory Surgical Centers (ASCs)

While not traditional MRI customers, ASCs are beginning to adopt open MRI systems for preoperative assessments and post-operative imaging , particularly in orthopedic and spinal surgeries . The ability to install open MRI units in smaller footprints—and often without the need for heavy shielding—makes them practical additions to surgical centers aiming for imaging self-sufficiency.

 

4. Academic & Research Institutes

Academic and research centers use open MRI platforms for:

• Neurocognitive and behavioral studies

• Imaging in stress or motion-prone environments

• Pediatric and geriatric research protocols

Their demand focuses more on system customization, compatibility with auxiliary research equipment , and real-time data output capabilities , making them early adopters of open MRI systems with modular and experimental configurations .

 

Real-World Use Case

A tertiary hospital in South Korea recently deployed two open MRI systems within its outpatient wing, targeting elderly and neurodegenerative patients who previously resisted closed MRI procedures. Over 18 months, the facility reported a 27% drop in appointment cancellations and a 40% increase in scan completion among claustrophobic patients . Additionally, AI-assisted post-processing reduced radiologist read time by 30%, allowing the hospital to handle more cases without increasing staff.

This case underscores how open MRI systems not only enhance patient compliance but also optimize operational capacity—particularly in high-density healthcare systems.

 

Recent Developments + Opportunities & Restraints

Recent Developments (2023–2024)

• Siemens Healthineers launched a next-gen open MRI system integrated with AI-enhanced motion correction and cloud-based workflow analytics, targeting outpatient imaging centers .

• GE HealthCare announced a collaboration with NVIDIA to accelerate AI diagnostics in open MRI systems through on-device learning algorithms.

• Canon Medical Systems introduced a mid-field open MRI unit with low-energy magnetics and ambient lighting, marketed for pediatric and psychiatric applications.

• Philips Healthcare unveiled a new cloud-native MRI dashboard platform, enhancing remote control and predictive maintenance across its open MRI installations.

• Fujifilm Healthcare (Hitachi) completed pilot installations of modular open MRI systems in rural Brazil and Kenya under a WHO-backed imaging accessibility program.

 

Opportunities

• Expansion in Emerging Economies Rapid urbanization and health infrastructure development in Asia, Latin America, and Africa create strong demand for mid-cost, low-maintenance diagnostic solutions like open MRI.

• AI and Workflow Automation The integration of AI for faster image reconstruction and diagnostic support opens a pathway for reduced scan times, optimized workflows, and broader application in outpatient settings.

• Personalized, Non-Invasive Diagnostics Open MRI systems enable more inclusive and patient-comfort-oriented imaging—meeting rising expectations in both urban and remote care models.

 

Restraints

• High Capital Investment Despite being more affordable than closed MRI, open MRI systems still require significant upfront investment, which limits adoption in resource-constrained environments.

• Lower Resolution in Certain Applications While AI has mitigated this issue to some extent, open MRI systems—especially low-field models—may still underperform in highly specialized imaging such as vascular or functional MRI.

 

7.1. Report Coverage Table

Report Attribute	Details
Forecast Period	2024 – 2030
Market Size Value in 2024	USD 2.14 Billion
Revenue Forecast in 2030	USD 3.43 Billion
Overall Growth Rate	CAGR of 8.2% (2024 – 2030)
Base Year for Estimation	2024
Historical Data	2019 – 2023
Unit	USD Million, CAGR (2024 – 2030)
Segmentation	By Type, By Field Strength, By Application, By End User, By Geography
By Type	Permanent Magnet, Superconducting
By Field Strength	Low-Field (<0.3T), Mid-Field (0.3T–1.0T), High-Field (>1.0T)
By Application	Neurology, Orthopedics, Cardiology, Oncology, Others
By End User	Hospitals, Diagnostic Imaging Centers, ASCs, Academic & Research Institutes
By Region	North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, Middle East & Africa
Country Scope	U.S., UK, Germany, China, India, Japan, Brazil, UAE, etc.
Market Drivers	- Technological innovation in AI-assisted imaging - Rising demand for non-claustrophobic imaging environments - Expansion of outpatient diagnostic infrastructure
Customization Option	Available upon request