Revolutionary AI Imaging Tech Significantly Reduces Radiation Exposure in Medical Diagnostics

Researchers at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST) have developed an innovative AI-powered medical imaging technology that can generate highly accurate 3D models of bones and organs using minimal X-ray images. This groundbreaking approach reduces patients' radiation exposure by up to 99% compared to traditional CT scans, enhancing safety, reducing costs, and shortening waiting times.

The new technique employs a sophisticated AI algorithm that reconstructs detailed 3D anatomical images from as few as 2 to 4 X-ray snapshots, whereas conventional CT scans typically require 400 to 500 images. This major reduction in imaging procedures translates into safer scans, especially critical for vulnerable groups such as children, pregnant women, and the elderly.

In addition to significantly lowering radiation risks, this technology accelerates image processing, generating high-quality 3D images in under a minute. It also dramatically decreases the cost of imaging, with X-ray based procedures being roughly six to eight times cheaper than CT scans. Furthermore, the increased speed benefits hospital workflows by enabling rapid diagnostics, reducing patient wait times from weeks to hours.

The HKUST research team, led by Prof. Li Xiaomeng, aims to integrate this technology into clinical applications like surgical planning, real-time imaging, and personalized implant fabrication. Collaborations with industry partners such as Koln 3D, a leading orthopedic and implant manufacturer, are underway to develop patient-specific models and implants, streamlining preoperative planning and surgical navigation.

Prof. Li emphasizes the technology’s broad potential: 'Beyond initial applications in 3D bone printing, we foresee significant impacts across various fields of orthopedic surgery and diagnostics. Our goal is to enhance imaging accuracy and operational efficiency, fundamentally transforming how medical imaging is performed.'

Industry leaders like Koln 3D’s CEO Edmond Yau highlight the transformative nature of the innovation: 'This AI solution solves major challenges related to time and cost in implant and surgical planning. In less than half a minute, we can generate precise 3D models from minimal X-ray data, enabling faster, more affordable, and safer patient care.' Meanwhile, orthopedic specialist Dr. TSE Lung Fung underlines its clinical significance: 'Reducing radiation exposure while maintaining high accuracy is a game-changer, particularly for vulnerable patient groups requiring repeated imaging.'

With validation in public hospitals expected soon, this technology promises to redefine standards in medical imaging, making safer, quicker, and more affordable diagnostics accessible. The team is also exploring applications in cardiac and pulmonary imaging to further revolutionize non-invasive diagnostics and surgical procedures.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-07-ai-medical-imaging-technology.html