The new Spectral CT (Spectral CT) is officially in operation. The Candiolo Institute-IRCCS thus takes another step forward in technological innovation with the adoption of a state-of-the-art machine. Thanks to an investment of about 2.5 million euros from the Piedmont Foundation for Cancer Research, this technology will improve diagnostic accuracy, enabling increasingly personalized treatments for cancer patients.

WHAT IS SPECTRAL CT?

Unlike traditional CT scans, Spectral CT uses dual spectral energy technology, analyzing tissues in greater detail. This advanced system makes it possible to:

• Detect tissue density and chemical composition, improving the distinction between benign and malignant lesions.
• Detect structural microvariations, critical for early cancer detection.
• Optimize the use of contrast medium, providing higher quality images with less X-ray exposure.

THE BENEFITS OF SPECTRAL CT FOR PATIENTS

In the field of oncology, Spectral CT offers increased sensitivity in the detection of lung tumors and other malignancies because of its ability to analyze contrast medium uptake in the tumor microcirculation.

Its introduction will bring numerous concrete benefits for patients and physicians:

• Early Diagnosis: Earlier detection of neoplasms, improving treatment options.
• Advanced Lesion Characterization: Greater accuracy in defining the nature of tumors.
• Lower Exposure to Radiation: Technology optimized to reduce X-ray dose without compromising image quality.
• Personalized Treatments: Allows treatment to be tailored to the patient’s specific characteristics.
• Diagnostic Speed: Reduces waiting time for results, accelerating the care pathway.
• More Precise Biopsies: Advanced support for targeted tissue sampling, reducing the risk of diagnostic errors.

CANDIOLO IRCCS: A CENTER AT THE FOREFRONT IN EUROPE

The installation of the Spectral CT scan complements a new digital angiograph, which will go into operation in the coming months. Thanks to this dual innovation, the Candiolo-IRCCS Institute will be one of only four centers in Europe to have both technologies, paving the way for new diagnostic and therapeutic protocols.