These Dutch startups join hands for ‘Radiology of the Future’ project, bag €1.5M funding from ERDF

Medical images can be analysed more accurately, more effectively, and easier using Artificial Intelligence. It takes time to develop an algorithm, which functions even better than an average physician. And, there are advantages such as reduced work pressure for physicians and enables a faster and more accurate diagnosis for patients.

Thirona is a Dutch startup that develops computer algorithms for medical image analysis. It focuses on CT scans of lungs. Founded by Eva van Rikxoort and Bram van Ginneken in 2014, it is a Radbound university medical spin-off.

‘Radiology of the Future’ project

In a recent development, Thirona, Quirem, and Radboudumc have joined forces in the ‘Radiology of the Future’ project. The collaboration has resulted in a contribution from ERDF (European Regional Development Fund). With image analysis, doctors can assess if patients’ organs are healthy or not in a faster, better, and more inventive way. Raising €1.5 million funding from ERDF, it is possible to launch the Radiology of the Future project.

For Van Ginneken, the project funded by ERDF should mainly lead to the development of useful algorithms for oncology. “An increasing number of treatment options mean that patients with cancer live longer. That also means that an increasing number of scans are made to monitor the course of the disease and its treatment.

Precision medicine to treat cancer!

Quirem Medical, a spin-off from UMC Utrecht, produces small radioactive spheres (holmium microspheres) used mainly for treating patients with liver cancer and metastatic liver cancer. Director Jan Sigger said, “The spheres are injected into an artery and subsequently get stuck in the capillaries of the tumour. The tumour cells are killed by the local radiation from the inside. Imaging is essential for this treatment. To determine which patients are eligible, to follow the microspheres during the treatment, and to determine the correct dose for each tumour. Imaging is indispensable in this form of precision medicine.”

Main image picture credits: Thirona

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