Kromek and DTU Space collaborate on 3D MBI project

Kromek, a radiation detection specialist based in the UK, is to work with researchers at the Danish space agency DTU Space, on a project to develop a 3D molecular breast imager scanner capable of more precise and certain diagnosis of small breast cancer tumours. Kromek will contribute its cadmium zinc telluride detection technology, a room-temperature semiconductor that directly converts x-ray or gamma ray photons into charge carriers inside the crystal which is already used in medical devices and for studying high-energy phenomena in space. There is £321,000 funding for the project which will take 2 years to complete, and will focus on making the electronics used around CZT detectors smaller, lighter and more power efficient.
Chief executive officer of Kromek Dr Arnab Basu, said: “Kromek already has medical imaging products, for example, we sell many surgical gamma-probes every year to hospitals around the world, and we provide turn-key gamma SPECT camera solutions to OEM medical imaging manufacturers. We are also involved in a project to transform breast imaging techniques using new developments in our CZT-based SPECT detector technology to reduce the required dose of radiation in molecular breast imaging. Our aim in both these projects is to achieve better outcomes for patients and lower costs for hospitals.”
Irfan Kuvv, senior scientist at DTU Space, said: “We are happy to contribute to something as important as diagnosing and fighting cancer. It is exciting that space science technology can be used in the medical field. And through collaboration with the industry we also look forward to being able to supply equipment based on the technology for a future high-energy mission in space.”