SonoSite, Inc. (SonoSite), a diagnostic imaging company, has reported preliminary results for the first quarter ended March 31, 2009. For the first quarter 2009, SonoSite worldwide revenues decreased by 1% - 2%, compared with worldwide revenues of first quarter 2008. On a constant currency basis, worldwide revenues grew 6% - 7% in the first quarter 2009, indicating a currency headwind of about 8%.
US revenues grew about 4% year over year. Continued slowing of US hospital capital spending drove a mid-teen percentage decline in SonoSite’s US hospital revenues. This was offset by excellent growth in the company’s US enterprise channel. International revenues decreased approximately 6% in the quarter, driven by the impact of a weaker dollar. On a constant currency basis the International sector was up approximately 8% in first quarter 2009 on a year over year basis.
These revenue estimates are preliminary. The company will report full financial results for the first quarter on April 27, 2009 after the close of market.