Development and market potential analysis of a quantum-enabled system for breast imaging

Purpose and goal:

The aim of the project has been to clarify the medical and commercial potential of medical imaging with Ultrasound Optical Tomography (UOT) for breast cancer diagnostics. The goal is fulfilled with a positive conclusion about the potential. Another objective was improved performance of the demonstrator system, which was also achieved through, among other things, a new light detector. The project has also taken the technology one step closer to clinical testing.

Expected results and effects:

In the project, a first market analysis for breast cancer diagnostics has been developed. Furthermore, new in silico breast tissue phantoms have been developed for use in imaging simulations with UOT. A plan for clinical studies with the technology has been formulated. Finally, the demonstrator system has been updated with several technical improvements to improve signal-to-noise ratio and image acquisition speed.

Approach and implementation:

The project has been organized in interdisciplinary working groups with participants from the various parties: the department of Atomic Physics, the department of Diagnostic Radiology, and the company Deep Light Vision. Project meetings have been held 1-2 times/month. The work in the working groups has been coordinated with a common cloud platform. We assess that the project approach has been efficient and useful.