CT:VQ™: A Breakthrough in Lung Imaging with FDA Clearance

The recent FDA clearance of CT:VQ™ technology marks a meaningful step in lung imaging. This pioneering non-contrast modality emerges as an alternative in select scenarios, with potential to complement traditional nuclear ventilation-perfusion (V/Q) scans as comparative evidence, clinical guidelines, and real-world adoption data continue to develop. This measured leap in technology could help refine clinical practices in lung health diagnostics.

CT:VQ™'s mechanism integrates anatomical and functional imaging, providing a comprehensive view of the lungs. For suspected pulmonary embolism, current diagnostic pathways typically prioritize CT pulmonary angiography and, in selected patients, nuclear V/Q scanning; CT:VQ™ may serve as a complementary or alternative approach pending evaluation and incorporation into future guidelines. FDA clearance of CT:VQ™ underlies its potential to be a game-changer in lung imaging.

FDA clearance is an important regulatory milestone that enables clinical use; its real-world impact will depend on evidence generation, guideline updates, and coverage decisions. Achieving standard-of-care status will require robust clinical evidence, guideline endorsement, and reimbursement.

In comparing modalities, it is important to balance safety and practicality. Compared with traditional nuclear V/Q scans, which have an established safety profile with generally low radiation exposure and rare tracer-related adverse events, CT:VQ™ avoids radioactive tracers and provides detailed anatomical context; overall radiation dose varies by protocol and patient. This technology may offer advantages such as avoiding radioactive tracers and providing anatomical detail, while nuclear V/Q remains a well-established option; the optimal choice depends on local resources and patient factors.

Examining the clinical applications reveals that CT:VQ™ is increasingly valuable for assessing conditions such as COPD and post-COVID lung dysfunction, with ongoing studies continuing to define its role.

Building on its clinical promise and recent clearance, CT:VQ™ presents logistical considerations for integration into healthcare systems. Its compatibility with existing radiology infrastructure and emphasis on streamlined training protocols ensure that facilities may facilitate adoption, though implementation needs vary by site.

Key takeaways

• Aligns anatomical and functional views and may serve as an adjunct or alternative in PE workups, pending guideline evaluation.
• FDA clearance may support broader adoption as evidence accumulates and coverage and guidelines evolve.
• Balanced safety profile: CT:VQ™ avoids radioactive tracers and offers anatomical detail, while nuclear V/Q remains established; actual radiation exposure and logistics vary by protocol and site.
• Emerging clinical opportunities include COPD and post-COVID assessment, with studies underway to clarify optimal use.