First single-source photon-counting CT installed for radiotherapy

Photon-counting CT technology differs from conventional CT by detecting and counting individual X-ray photons. This allows for: 

• higher spatial resolution, 

• more detailed anatomical and functional data, 

• potentially lower imaging dose 

“PCCT technology combines several advantages for its application in radiotherapy. It provides better and more accurate CT datasets, allowing us to plan radiation treatments more precisely and with a reduced imaging dose,” said Prof. Christian Richter, Head of the Department of Medical Radiation Physics at OncoRay and Principal Investigator for CT imaging in radiotherapy at HZDR. 

In 2019, OncoRay introduced DirectSPR, a dual-energy CT method to improve the estimation of proton range. While effective, it was limited to non-moving tumors. The integration of PCCT now allows researchers to apply this method to moving tumors, thereby broadening its clinical usability. 

OncoRay is a joint initiative supported by the Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf (HZDR), TU Dresden's Faculty of Medicine, and the Carl Gustav Carus University Hospital. Its focus on translational research ensures that technological developments swiftly benefit patients. 

“With the detailed evaluation of the new CT technology and its subsequent gradual introduction into clinical practice, we are further strengthening our position as a leading centre for translational research in radiation oncology,” said Prof. Mechthild Krause, Director of OncoRay. 

The new system, NAEOTOM Alpha.Prime, is expected to be operational by mid-July. Each year, about 2,500 tumor patients receive treatment at OncoRay’s Department of Radiation Oncology. 

“In addition to enabling radiotherapy with fewer side effects, the PCCT images may even allow us to predict how the tumor will respond to therapy. Then, we can adapt the radiation treatment accordingly,” explained Prof. Esther Troost, Head of Image-Guided Radiooncology. 

MEDICA-tradefair.com; Source: Helmholtz-Zentrum Dresden-Rossendorf