Check out post 37376 by Tradetalker about the use of Solos products in research by the NIH and take a look at a typical technological adoption curve for medical devices.
BTW Why isn't that post still stickied?, I find it to be an extremely information piece of information
The two competitors mentioned in that post have all but been confirmed to be Storz (Germany) and Olympus (Japan) which are the two market share leaders for endoscopic products.
zandant - I hope you found mgrego's responses to your question adequate.
I just want to extend my welcome to you for visiting/participating in the IHub SNDY board. Realizing you have been posting here for awhile, I believe I have been negligent in not welcoming you sooner. Your presence is welcome!! GLTY.