On October 30, the new computed tomography facility was opened at the Department of Clinical Radiology of the Infant Jesus Teaching Hospital of the University Clinical Center at the Medical University of Warsaw (SKDJ UCK WUM).
The first device of its kind in Poland
The new facility is equipped with the most advanced spectral detector CT scanner. It is the first device of its kind in Poland, with only nine such devices in Central Europe and 120 across the entire continent.
“I am proud that we are the first in Poland to commission a computed tomography scanner with a spectral detector. It will provide new research opportunities for our scientists, and students will have the chance to learn the most advanced imaging techniques,” said Prof. Rafał Krenke, Rector of WUM. He added, “Our specialists are receiving a new, cutting-edge tool for computed tomography. Spectral detection technology significantly speeds up diagnostics and therefore helps treat patients faster and more effectively. It will improve the quality of medical services provided by the University Clinical Center.”
New opportunities for imaging studies
The spectral detector CT scanner offers entirely new possibilities for imaging studies, significantly reducing the time needed to establish an accurate diagnosis. The device makes it possible to assess the coronary vessels and the heart muscle simultaneously. Results obtained with spectral coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) show that invasive and costly procedures are not necessary for certain patients. Spectral results also improve detection of pathological changes and tumor assessment in oncological applications, and fast neurological analyses speed up treatment for trauma patients. The spectral detector CT scanner reduces the time needed to arrive at a diagnosis by one third.
“The new spectral detector CT scanner will significantly expand the diagnostic capabilities of our hospital due to reduced scan time,” emphasized Prof. Paweł Łęgosz, Deputy Director for Medical Services at UCK WUM, Infant Jesus Teaching Hospital. “Patients from different clinics will be examined here. This technology offers extensive possibilities for assessing a patient’s condition before cardiac procedures, but transplant surgeons, general surgeons, and orthopedic surgeons will also benefit. Importantly, the scanner will serve patients of the entire University Clinical Center, which means that all three hospitals will have access to it.”
The results obtained from the new spectral detector CT scanner will also be used in scientific research conducted by WUM and UCK WUM staff, as well as in educational activities with students.
What does spectral technology change?
- More accurate decision-making at the outset
- Material differentiation and contrast-agent signal enhancement
- Artifact reduction and improved image quality
- Precise diagnostics even in challenging clinical conditions
- Reduced need for repeated exams or referrals for other types of diagnostic imaging
Benefits for patients
- Earlier and more accurate cancer detection
- More precise imaging of the heart and coronary vessels
- Faster diagnosis in emergency cases, such as pulmonary embolism or acute pain
- Reduced radiation dose and lower amount of contrast medium
- Faster decisions regarding further treatment
This is an investment in the future of medicine, meaning faster therapeutic decisions, greater safety, and better patient outcomes.
“The computed tomography facility of our department is the first facility of this class in Poland. It offers highly advanced types of imaging studies using spectral technology,” said Dr. hab. Tomasz Lorenc, Head of the Department of Clinical Radiology at SKDJ UCK WUM. “It provides a great deal of additional diagnostic information. We are entering the area of functional diagnostics, something that until now has been reserved for magnetic resonance imaging and nuclear medicine. The examination will be more precise and faster. The device will allow us to examine approximately 50 patients a day.”
The purchase of the device was financed by the Ministry of Science and Higher Education.
Participants in the opening ceremony
- Prof. Rafał Krenke, Rector of WUM
- Prof. Paweł Włodarski, Dean of the Faculty of Medicine at WUM
- Prof. Paweł Łęgosz, Deputy Director for Medical Services at UCK WUM, Infant Jesus Teaching Hospital
- Dr. hab. Tomasz Lorenc, Head of the Department of Clinical Radiology at SKDJ UCK WUM
- Michal Szczechula, District Leader, Health Systems CEE, Philips
- Stanisław Ostrowski, President of the Board, Kosmed
The project titled “Spectral computed tomography scanner for advanced tissue analysis and characterization” was carried out by the Medical University of Warsaw as part of activities supporting the development of the university’s research infrastructure.
The project is co-financed by the state budget under agreement no. 7543/IA/SP/2024 concluded on August 19, 2024, between the Minister of Science and Higher Education and the Medical University of Warsaw.
Amount of targeted subsidy awarded: PLN 8,000,000.00. Total value of the investment: PLN 8,769,757.30.
Implementation period: 2024–2026
