MedWaveImage

The Future of Medical Imaging in Central Europe

About the project

We are a proud partner of MedWaveImage, a forward-looking transnational cooperation project funded by Interreg Central Europe. Healthcare in Central Europe faces significant challenges: demographic shifts and a shortage of skilled professionals often lead to an undersupply of medical services, particularly in rural and peripheral regions. This is exactly where MedWaveImage comes in. The project aims to bridge the gap between academic research and clinical practice by making innovative medical imaging technologies accessible.

The Challenge & the Solution

Traditional imaging methods (such as MRI or CT) are often expensive, immobile, and require highly specialized infrastructure. This makes access difficult in remote areas. MedWaveImage’s solution is Microwave Imaging (MWI). This technology uses low-power, non-ionizing electromagnetic waves. It offers decisive advantages that can revolutionize decentralized healthcare:

  • Safety: As no X-rays are used, the procedure is harmless to patients and staff and can be repeated as often as necessary.

  • Mobility: The devices are compact and portable, enabling "Point-of-Care" diagnostics.

  • Cost-effectiveness: By utilizing available hardware from the telecommunications sector, the systems are cost-efficient to purchase and maintain.


Our Goals: Research Meets Application

MedWaveImage transfers knowledge from technical universities to small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) to develop prototypes supported by Artificial Intelligence (AI). These will subsequently be tested directly in partner hospitals. The focus is on three specific pilot applications:

  1. Breast Cancer Screening: Developing gentler methods for early detection.

  2. Stroke Monitoring: Monitoring brain tissue for rapid response after a stroke.

  3. Neck Tumors: Improved diagnostic capabilities in the head and neck region.

A Strong Network for Europe

The project combines expertise from three countries (Italy, Germany, Czech Republic) and links research, industry, and medical application.

  • Research Partners: Polytechnic of Turin (IT, Lead Partner), Czech Technical University in Prague (CZ), Technical University of Ilmenau (DE).

  • Clinical Partners: Motol University Hospital (CZ), Bulovka University Hospital (CZ), Jena University Hospital (DE).

  • Technology Partners: Ilmsens GmbH (DE), E.P.F. Elettrotecnica S.r.l. (IT).

Learn More Follow our progress and find out more about the technology on the official project website: 
Visit the MedWaveImage Project Website