Programme: Spectral CT-imaging and Endovascular Techniques

The research programme Spectral CT‑imaging and Endovascular Techniques (2019–2023) was led by two internationally recognised Principal Investigators — both also co‑founders of MedTechLabs:

• Professor Mats Danielsson, Professor of Medical Imaging Physics at KTH Royal Institute of Technology – a global pioneer in silicon‑based photon‑counting X‑ray detectors and a driving force behind next‑generation CT technology.
  
• Professor Staffan Holmin, Professor of Clinical Neuroimaging at Karolinska Institutet and Senior Consultant in Neuroradiology at Karolinska University Hospital – a leading innovator in endovascular techniques, stroke intervention, micro‑biopsy technologies and minimally invasive diagnostics.

Their combined vision and complementary expertise in physics‑driven imaging and advanced clinical interventions formed the foundation of MedTechLabs — and shaped the success of this five‑year programme.

A Completed Programme Defining the Future of CT

The research programme concluded in 2023, marking a major step forward in photon‑counting CT. MedTechLabs’ strategic tenure‑track recruitment strengthened the research environment, including Mats Persson (KTH) whose work on deep‑learning image reconstruction, noise suppression and modelling advanced the capabilities of silicon‑based CT.

Clinical Validation at Karolinska University Hospital

A hallmark achievement was the clinical evaluation of the world’s first silicon‑based photon‑counting CT prototypes, installed at the MedTechLabs CT‑lab in BioClinicum at Karolinska University Hospital. More than a hundred patients across several organ systems have been scanned, generating critical data that supports regulatory approval processes and accelerates technological refinement. This close integration of engineering, clinical expertise and hospital‑based prototyping is a core strength of MedTechLabs.

Breakthroughs in Endovascular Techniques and Stroke Education

Under Staffan Holmin’s leadership, the programme also developed novel endovascular tools, including micro‑biopsy instruments, cell delivery methods, and new approaches to vascular access in the brain and other organs. MedTechLabs further contributed to clinical implementation by developing a widely used education in acute stroke management, focusing on perfusion‑based decision support up to 24 hours after onset. This course now improves stroke diagnostics and treatment pathways across Sweden.

Learn More – Impact Case Available

For those interested in the full research and innovation journey, explore the impact case Better diagnostics with silicon‑based photon‑counting CT, which is available as a browsable online version and also as a downloadable file on this page.