AIM
V|LF-Spiro3D aims at developing and validating a new modality for spatially resolved, 3D lung structure and function characterization using cost-effective small-footprint, low and very-low MRI technology. 3D MR spirometry is to provide an accessible tool for the early diagnosis, staging, and treatment follow-up of patients suffering from respiratory diseases.
Lung function is a central concern in the fight against covid-19. Beyond the pandemic heavy losses and long-term health implications, respiratory diseases represent a major threat for the World Health Organisation. It is one of the leading causes of death worldwide, associated to our way of living and impacting all of society.
In V|LF-Spiro3D, reference datasets are being acquired at standard MRI field to produce large sets of normative and training data covering six major respiratory diseases: asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary diseases, bronchopulmonary dysplasia, cystic fibrosis, and bronchiolitis obliterans syndrome in transplant recipients.
V|LF-Spiro3D will then redesign current MRI architecture to perform 3D MR spirometry at low and very low field by highly-processed MRI throughout the lung while the patient is freely breathing either lying, sitting, or standing in a light V|LF-MRI system.
By prioritizing both technology transfer and innovation, V|LF-Spiro3D aims to build up a one-stop-shop imaging standard for unrestricted assessment of lung pathophysiology.