Computed tomography is taking medical imaging to a whole new level. This non-invasive imaging procedure uses X-rays to create a detailed picture of the body’s internal parts. It is becoming an ideal tool for diagnosing and managing various diseases.
Is computed tomography (CT) a mainstream imaging technology? Absolutely. According to Coherent Market Insights, global demand for computed tomography products is set to rise at a CAGR of 6.5% during the forecast period.
The global computed tomography industry size will likely reach US$ 12.3 billion by 2030. This is mainly due to increasing prevalence of chronic diseases and advancements in imaging technology. Growing demand for early and accurate diagnosis is another key factor responsible for this growth.
Computed Tomography Innovations
Computed tomography technology has come a long way since its introduction in the 1970s. Latest CT scanner innovations are improving diagnostic accuracy and patient outcomes. Companies have developed high-resolution scanners to meet the evolving needs of healthcare professionals.
- Photon-Counting CT
A real game changer in the computed tomography industry is the phone-counting CT (PCCT). This novel technology offers higher resolution and better image quality while reducing radiation dose.
PCCT is giving tough competition to traditional energy-integrating detectors. It provides superior image clarity by measuring individual X-ray photons and their energy levels. Courtesy of this, PCCT is becoming a valuable tool for oncology, cardiovascular, and neuroimaging applications.
- Spectral CT Imaging
Spectral CT, often referred to as dual-energy CT, uses different X-ray energy levels to differentiate between various materials and tissue types. This technology is significantly improving diagnostic accuracy by providing detailed information on tissue composition and enhancing lesion characterization. It also reduces the need for contrast agents.
- AI in Computed Tomography
Artificial intelligence is impacting different industries, and computed tomography is no exception. This advanced technology is revolutionizing CT imaging by enabling faster image reconstruction. It also offers automated anomaly detection and enhanced workflow efficiency.
AI-based algorithms help optimize scan parameters and reduce image artifacts. They have the tendency to assist radiologists in making more accurate decisions.
Today, we are witnessing high adoption of AI in a variety of CT applications. This includes usage of AI for smart scheduling, speeding up workflow, image analysis, and automating CT protocols.
- 4D Computed Tomography (4D CT)
Unlike traditional CT which captures static images, 4D CT adds a time dimension. It allows real-time visualization of blood flow and organ movement. This advanced technology records multiple images over time, thereby allowing playback of the scan as a video.
4D CT imaging is gaining popularity in oncology for tumor tracking during radiation therapy. Similarly, it is being used in cardiology for assessing dynamic heart function.
- Portable and Point-of-Care CT Systems
Recent years have seen the development of mobile CT scanners. These compact scanners are making medical imaging more accessible, especially in emergency settings and intensive care units.
POC CT systems enable bedside scanning, thereby reducing the need to transfer critically ill patients in urgent care scenarios. They can be easily deployed in ambulances and rural clinics, enabling faster diagnosis and treatment.
- Low-dose CT Technology
There are growing concerns about radiation exposure in medical imaging. This is triggering interest in developing novel techniques to reduce radiation dose in CT imaging without compromising diagnostic accuracy. Novel innovations like adaptive dose modulation and AI-driven reduction algorithms are helping to minimize radiation exposure.
