Fraunhofer Research Institution for Individualized and Cell-Based Medical EngineeringMore precise imaging for the smart, robot-assisted operating room
About
TX2.0 is a joint project between Fraunhofer IMTE and Hugo Rost GmbH to develop a dual-energy 3D C-arm for the intelligent, robot-assisted operating room. The aim is to create a novel imaging technology that significantly increases the precision and safety of minimally invasive procedures through improved soft tissue visualization, reduced radiation dose, and AI-supported assistance functions.
Opportunity
Despite major advances, imaging systems in the operating room are reaching their limits when it comes to complex, minimally invasive procedures. There is a particular need for optimization in the precise localization of sensitive structures, the detection of implants, and dose reduction. Metal artifacts, limited soft tissue contrast, and a lack of integration into robotic assistance systems complicate clinical application. In addition, the requirements for radiation protection, usability, and regulatory approval of new imaging technologies are increasing.
Solution/Product description
The TX2.0 project is developing an innovative dual-energy 3D C-arm that combines state-of-the-art hardware and intelligent software. Hugo Rost GmbH is responsible for the further development of the TOMEDEX demonstrator, while Fraunhofer IMTE is developing multi-energy reconstruction and evaluation software – including metal artifact correction, dose optimization, and bone density determination. In addition, a modular software architecture with DICOM and device interfaces, AR/VR-based surgical navigation, AI-supported assistance functions, and radiation-free simulation and training environments are being set up. Additive dual-energy phantoms are used for development and validation, while preclinical studies and usability analyses ensure practical suitability.
Why Us
TX2.0 combines leading expertise in medical technology, robotics, and clinical translation. The Lübeck Innovation Hub for Robotic Surgery (LIROS) provides a unique infrastructure for integrating and testing imaging systems in the operating room. The combination of hardware and software development, multimodal fusion (including with MPI), and a clear regulatory roadmap makes TX2.0 a pioneering project for the next generation of intelligent, radiation-optimized imaging systems.