4DMedical’s CT:VQ: A Catalyst for Scalable Diagnostic Growth in Pulmonary Care

In 2025, 4DMedical’s CT:VQ software received FDA clearance, marking a paradigm shift in pulmonary diagnostics. This first-of-its-kind non-contrast CT-based ventilation-perfusion (V/Q) tool replaces traditional nuclear medicine scans, which rely on radioactive tracers and lengthy procedures [1]. By leveraging existing CT infrastructure, CT:VQ eliminates the need for additional equipment, contrast agents, or radiopharmaceuticals, reducing costs and improving patient access [1]. Clinical validation has demonstrated strong agreement with the gold-standard single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT), while physicians report clearer images and fewer artifacts [1]. This regulatory milestone positions CT:VQ as a scalable solution for hospitals and clinics, particularly in resource-constrained settings where nuclear medicine departments are unavailable [2].

The competitive edge of CT:VQ lies in its ability to address critical unmet needs in pulmonary diagnostics. Traditional nuclear V/Q scans are invasive, time-consuming, and limited by radiotracer availability, creating bottlenecks in patient care [2]. In contrast, 4DMedical’s SaaS-based platform allows hospitals to upload existing CT scans and generate V/Q reports within minutes, bypassing the logistical hurdles of nuclear imaging [2]. The U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) has already initiated a pilot program involving 80 active-duty personnel, signaling confidence in the technology’s scalability and potential for broader adoption [2]. With the global respiratory diagnostics market projected to grow from USD 6.02 billion in 2025 to USD 7.24 billion by 2030 [4], CT:VQ is uniquely positioned to capture a significant share of the $1.2 billion V/Q diagnostics market [2].

Addressing unmet clinical needs is central to 4DMedical’s value proposition. High capital costs and limited access to advanced pulmonary devices in low-resource settings have long hindered diagnostic equity [1]. CT:VQ’s low-barrier model—requiring no new hardware or specialized training—enables smaller healthcare providers to adopt cutting-edge diagnostics [2]. Additionally, the technology mitigates the shortage of trained respiratory technologists by automating complex imaging workflows [4]. For patients, the elimination of radiation exposure and streamlined procedures enhance safety and comfort, aligning with the growing demand for non-invasive, point-of-care solutions [3].

The commercialization trajectory of CT:VQ is further bolstered by strategic partnerships and AI integration. The company’s collaboration with Philips, a leader in medical imaging, underscores the technology’s readiness for mainstream adoption [2]. Meanwhile, AI-driven tools like IQ-UIP™ enhance diagnostic precision for conditions such as idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis (IPF), creating a holistic ecosystem for structural and functional lung health [2]. With reimbursement mechanisms already in place in the U.S. and a growing emphasis on early detection of chronic respiratory diseases [3], 4DMedical is poised to expand into adjacent markets, including COPD management and pre-surgical planning [2].

As the global respiratory diagnostics market evolves, 4DMedical’s CT:VQ represents a transformative force. By combining regulatory credibility, clinical validation, and a SaaS model that lowers adoption barriers, the company is well-positioned to redefine pulmonary diagnostics. For investors, the alignment of unmet clinical needs, market growth, and technological innovation presents a compelling case for long-term value creation.

Source:
[1]
4DMedical Gains FDA Clearance For Groundbreaking CT:VQ
[2]
4DMedical Unveils CT:VQ™ at RSNA 2024
[3]
Respiratory Diagnostics Market Report 2025-2030
[4]
Respiratory Disease Testing Market Size & Share Analysis