Stefaan Vandenberghe

Next-generation PET/SPECT/CT imaging

Research in Next‑Generation PET/SPECT/CT Imaging focuses on developing innovative hardware, detector technologies and reconstruction algorithms for high‑performance molecular imaging. The work spans PET, SPECT and CT system design, monolithic detector development, advanced calibration and 3D reconstruction, image corrections and AI‑enhanced image‑processing techniques.

A major innovation line is the Walk‑Through PET concept, an upright, bed‑less PET architecture using vertically aligned monolithic detector panels. This design achieves high spatial resolution, depth‑of‑interaction and time‑of‑flight performance while reducing detector area and system cost. Efficient patient positioning and high sensitivity enable fast scanning and high throughput, supported by deep‑learning–based attenuation correction and enhanced sampling strategies.

Complementary research advances sampling and deep learning in CT, PET/SPECT detector and collimator design using Silicon Photomultipliers, combined with custom algorithms for interaction‑position estimation, system calibration and artificial intelligence. Additive manufacturing and precision machining enable optimized collimator geometries for clinical and research applications.