Demand for reliable, accurate, high-quality pulse oximetry devices in and – increasingly – outside hospitals is driven by the rise of chronic diseases, a growing elderly population prone to asthma, heart disease, sleep apnea and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, as well as the need to monitor oxygen levels in premature babies. According to a new report by Meddevicetracker, the global market for standalone, hospital-grade pulse oximetry devices and accessories will reach $1.9bn by 2021, a CAGR of 5.4% from 2016. In this feature, we'll take a closer look at the overall pulse oximetry market, the major players and which forces are driving – and stymying – its growth.

Sonivate Medical’s finger-worn ultrasound imaging probe is a ground-breaking solution that is perfectly positioned to satisfy the growing demand for point-of-care diagnostics, as well as "wearable" technology.

The medtech market continues to expand, in spite of operating challenges, but currency headwinds depressed top-line growth for outside-US companies. This year’s Clinica 100 league table, compiled by IN VIVO’s sister publication, Clinica, lists the world’s top 100 medical devices and diagnostic players based on annual sales for 2013 or their most recent fiscal year, as of October 31, 2014.

Jeff George, head of Novartis's generics business Sandoz since December 2008, is to take over the leadership of its eye care business Alcon. He will replace the retiring Kevin Buehler, who has been with the company for 30 years. Mr George's replacement at Sandoz is Biogen Idec's senior vice president, US commercial operations, Richard Francis.