The global Image-Guided Radiation Therapy (IGRT) market, valued at USD 1.9 billion in 2023, is projected to reach USD 2.4 billion by 2028, growing at a CAGR of 5.2%. IGRT represents a transformative leap in oncology treatment — merging advanced imaging technologies with precision radiation delivery to target tumors while minimizing harm to surrounding healthy tissues.
This growth is driven by rising global cancer incidence, the integration of AI and imaging analytics, technological innovation in linear accelerators (LINACs), and expanding reimbursement support across developed markets. As healthcare systems pivot toward non-invasive, patient-centric treatment modalities, IGRT continues to gain traction as the preferred option in modern radiotherapy suites worldwide.
Market Dynamics: Precision Medicine and Technological Innovation Drive Growth
The expansion of the image-guided radiation therapy market is underpinned by several converging forces:
- Escalating global cancer prevalence, particularly breast, prostate, and lung cancers.
- Continuous innovation in MRI-guided and PET/CT-guided radiation systems.
- Strong R&D funding and regulatory clarity supporting new device approvals.
- Favorable reimbursement policies for image-guided treatment procedures in North America and Europe.
- Growing patient preference for minimally invasive and targeted therapies.
Collectively, these factors are accelerating the shift toward precision oncology, where IGRT’s real-time visualization and motion management capabilities enhance tumor control rates while minimizing treatment-related complications.
However, market growth faces competitive pressure from alternative radiotherapy approaches such as automated radiation therapy systems and intensity-modulated radiation therapy (IMRT) platforms, which offer similar precision at potentially lower cost in some applications.
By Product: PET/MRI-Guided Radiation Therapy Poised for Fastest Growth
Based on product segmentation, the PET/MRI-guided radiation therapy segment is projected to witness significant growth during 2022–2028. This hybrid imaging technology provides both anatomical and functional information, enabling oncologists to tailor radiation doses with unmatched precision.
The fusion of positron emission tomography (PET) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) allows clinicians to simultaneously visualize metabolic activity and structural details, enhancing treatment planning and mid-course adaptation. PET/MRI-guided systems minimize radiation exposure to healthy tissues and reduce side effects — critical advantages in treating complex cancers like brain, head and neck, and breast malignancies.
As hospitals increasingly integrate AI-driven imaging analysis and adaptive radiotherapy algorithms, PET/MRI-guided systems are becoming essential to high-performance oncology departments seeking superior accuracy and patient outcomes.
By Procedure: IMRT Maintains Market Leadership
Among procedures, Intensity-Modulated Radiation Therapy (IMRT) remains the dominant segment, holding approximately 39.2% market share of the image-guided radiation therapy market in 2022. IMRT uses advanced software to modulate the intensity of radiation beams, shaping them precisely around tumor contours while sparing adjacent organs.
The synergy between IMRT and IGRT has been a key driver of modern radiotherapy’s evolution. When paired, IMRT provides dose customization, while IGRT offers real-time image feedback to correct patient or tumor motion during treatment. This integration significantly enhances precision, reduces toxicity, and improves therapeutic ratios — aligning perfectly with the global shift toward personalized oncology care.
As a result, IMRT’s compatibility with advanced imaging modalities and linear accelerators has cemented its role as the procedural backbone of the IGRT market.
By Application: Breast Cancer Dominates Due to Rising Global Incidence
The breast cancer segment accounted for a major share of the image-guided radiation therapy market during 2022–2028. Breast cancer remains the most diagnosed cancer among women globally, with over 2.3 million new cases annually (WHO, 2024).
IGRT’s real-time imaging and motion correction capabilities are particularly valuable in breast cancer radiotherapy, where precise tumor targeting reduces radiation exposure to the heart and lungs. The reduced need for frequent repositioning enhances patient comfort, improving adherence to multi-session treatment regimens.
Moreover, the increasing adoption of 3D and 4D imaging-based radiation planning, combined with advanced immobilization systems, allows oncologists to achieve better dose conformity and treatment reproducibility — key parameters for long-term disease control.
By End User: Hospitals Lead Global Market Adoption
Hospitals remain the primary end users of image-guided radiation therapy systems, accounting for the largest market share in 2022. The growing patient influx, rising complexity of oncology cases, and availability of multidisciplinary care teams make hospitals the ideal environment for IGRT deployment.
Hospitals also benefit from state-of-the-art infrastructure, access to high-end imaging systems, and integration with oncology research centers, which foster faster adoption of advanced treatment modalities like MRI-guided and proton beam therapy.
Additionally, independent radiotherapy centers and ambulatory cancer care (ACC) clinics are emerging as key growth avenues, especially in regions such as North America and Asia Pacific, where outpatient treatment models are expanding rapidly.
Hospitals’ commitment to value-based care, coupled with their ability to integrate AI-driven image analytics and cloud-based treatment planning, further solidifies their leadership in the global IGRT landscape.
Regional Insights: North America Dominates, Asia Pacific Accelerates
In 2022, North America accounted for a significant share of the global image-guided radiation therapy market and is expected to maintain its dominance through 2028. The region benefits from a robust oncology ecosystem, well-established reimbursement policies, and the presence of key global manufacturers such as Elekta (Sweden), Accuray Incorporated (US), and Siemens Healthineers AG (Germany).
The United States leads in both adoption and innovation, supported by major cancer centers integrating adaptive IGRT protocols, AI-based imaging platforms, and hybrid PET/MRI systems into routine clinical practice. Meanwhile, Canada’s national healthcare programs continue to expand patient access to advanced radiotherapy treatments.
In contrast, the Asia Pacific region — led by China, Japan, and India — is poised for the fastest growth due to increasing cancer prevalence, expanding healthcare infrastructure, and rising public-private investments in oncology care. Government support for local manufacturing and research collaborations further boosts the regional outlook.
Competitive Landscape: Technological Leadership Shapes Market Dynamics
The image-guided radiation therapy market is highly consolidated, with a few global leaders dominating technology innovation and clinical adoption. Key players include:
- Siemens Healthineers AG (Germany)
- Elekta (Sweden)
- Accuray Incorporated (US)
- Varian Medical Systems (US, a Siemens Healthineers company)
- ViewRay, Inc. (US)
- IBA Worldwide (Belgium)
These companies are investing heavily in MRI-guided linear accelerators, real-time motion tracking, and AI-integrated dose optimization software. Strategic partnerships between device manufacturers and academic cancer research institutions are further accelerating product development and clinical validation.
As healthcare systems worldwide transition to personalized, data-driven oncology, these innovations are expected to redefine the standards of precision, safety, and efficiency in radiation therapy.
Conclusion: Image-Guided Radiotherapy Ushers in a New Era of Precision Oncology
The image-guided radiation therapy market is on a decisive growth trajectory — fueled by technological innovation, precision imaging, and patient-centric treatment models. With the fusion of AI, real-time visualization, and adaptive therapy planning, IGRT is transforming cancer treatment from reactive to proactive care.
By 2028, as PET/MRI and 4D RT technologies become standard in leading hospitals worldwide, IGRT will remain the cornerstone of next-generation radiation oncology, empowering clinicians to deliver safer, smarter, and more personalized cancer care.