12 September 2023

Kromek Group plc

("Kromek" or the "Group")

Kromek detectors used in Spectrum Dynamics' new SPECT/CT scanner

Next generation scanner sets new standards in energy range, sensitivity and resolution

Kromek (AIM: KMK), a leading developer of radiation and bio-detection technology solutions for the advanced imaging and CBRN detection segments, is pleased to announce that one of its key customers, Spectrum Dynamics Medical ("Spectrum Dynamics"), has introduced the latest addition to its next generation digital SPECT/CT imaging portfolio, the VERITON-CT 300, for higher energy imaging, using Kromek's digital detectors.

Based on Spectrum Dynamics' digital SPECT/CT platform, the VERITON-CT 300 Series' detector technology provides the benefits of increased sensitivity and throughput for Nuclear Medicine clinical applications capable of using imaging utilising up to 300 keV high-energy isotopes. This allows for greater procedure efficiency in most exam types, as well as simultaneous acquisition of multi-energy peak isotopes commonly used in theranostic imaging applications.

A SPECT scan (single-photon emission computed tomography) is the technique of using nuclear medicine tomographic imaging techniques with gamma rays to provide detailed 3D functional images of the body. The SPECT/CT scanner combines the framework of the CT anatomic scan with the functional information provided by nuclear medicine imaging (SPECT scan). The images from each scan are then fused together providing highly accurate anatomical detail in 3D, allowing medical specialists to more accurately pinpoint the exact location of any abnormality.

Cadmium zinc telluride ("CZT") is transforming the detector technology used in medical imaging, leading to significantly shortened exam scan times, lower radiation dose to the patient, improved image quality and quantitative accuracy without compromise.  Kromek's high-performance digital detectors, combined with Spectrum's 360-degree, wide-bore SPECT/CT scanner and its advanced image reconstruction algorithms, increase the energy range up to 300 keV to support the throughput demand of current and new emerging nuclear medicine clinical applications that set a new standard in patient care.

The 300 Series digital detector technology sets new standards with a 2-4 times improvement in energy range, system sensitivity, and energy resolution. These improvements will further shorten the scan times associated with current analogue or state-of-the-art digital technology. The VERITON-CT Series also eliminates the need for collimator replacement further streamlining and simplifying workflow for various procedure types.

Arnab Basu, CEO of Kromek Group, said: "We are delighted that our CZT detectors have been integrated into Spectrum Dynamics' VERITON-CT 300 SPECT/CT systems. This enables enhanced image quality and breakthrough clinical capabilities in digital SPECT/CT. Spectrum Dynamics has long been at the forefront of developing next-generation SPECT/CT scanners to deliver better patient outcomes, and we are pleased to be part of this significant advance in nuclear medical imaging technology. There is real commercial momentum in this area, as companies continue to realise the significant benefits of CZT-based SPECT/CT systems, which is driving widespread adoption. As the only commercial independent global supplier of CZT, Kromek is well-placed to capitalise on this large market opportunity."

Gilad Yoeli, CEO of Spectrum Dynamics, added: "Clinical users across the world provide us with feedback on the Nuclear Medicine challenges they face. Providing the technology to address such challenges is what drives us. The increased sensitivity, improved energy resolution, and broader energy range of Kromek's detector technology make it the right choice for our customers' future imaging platforms. To better meet the current and future needs of SPECT imaging, Spectrum offers a full line of scanners, the 200 the 400 and now the 300, this offering allows nuclear medicine departments to base their entire scanner fleet on advanced digital detector technology."

Change of Name of Nominated Adviser and Broker

The Group also announces that its Nominated Adviser and Broker has changed its name to Cavendish Capital Markets Limited following completion of its own corporate merger.

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Kromek Group plc 

Kromek Group plc is a leading developer of radiation detection and bio-detection technology solutions for the advanced imaging and CBRN detection segments. Headquartered in County Durham, UK, Kromek has manufacturing operations in the UK and US, delivering on the vision of enhancing the quality of life through innovative detection technology solutions.  

The advanced imaging segment comprises the medical (including CT and SPECT), security and industrial markets. Kromek provides its OEM customers with detector components, based on its core cadmium zinc telluride (CZT) platform, to enable better detection of diseases such as cancer and Alzheimer's, contamination in industrial manufacture and explosives in aviation settings.  

In CBRN detection, the Group provides nuclear radiation detection solutions to the global homeland defence and security market. Kromek's compact, handheld, high-performance radiation detectors, based on advanced scintillation and solid-state readout technology, are primarily used to protect critical infrastructure, events, personnel and urban environments from the threat of 'dirty bombs'.  

The Group is also developing bio-security solutions in the CBRN detection segment. These consist of fully automated and autonomous systems to detect a wide range of airborne pathogens.  

Kromek is listed on AIM, a market of the London Stock Exchange, under the trading symbol 'KMK'.