TPET (Time-resolved Positron Emission Tomography) is a breakthrough imaging technology that uses picosecond timing to directly measure the location of tumors. Unlike conventional PET/CT scanners, TPET eliminates the need for complex reconstruction algorithms, allowing for faster, more accurate, and lower-cost cancer detection.

Conventional PET/CT relies on circular detector geometry and complex reconstruction, which increases cost, radiation exposure, and scan times. TPET uses parallel detector plates placed close to the patient, drastically improving efficiency, lowering radiation dose, reducing claustrophobia, and delivering direct 3D imaging in real time.

Blood tests like Galleri can signal the possible presence of cancer, but they have limited accuracy (around 43% positive predictive value). Imaging is necessary to confirm these results and determine the exact location and extent of disease. TPET bridges this gap by combining sensitivity with affordability, making early detection much more reliable.

• Earlier and more accurate cancer detection

• Lower radiation exposure

• Shorter, more comfortable scans (no long tunnel)

• Cost-effective compared to conventional PET/CT

• Potential for specialized applications such as breast and prostate imaging

Yes. Unlike PET/CT, which regulators currently do not approve for widespread screening due to radiation and cost, TPET addresses both concerns. Its efficiency and reduced dose make it a strong candidate for regulatory approval for cancer screening.

Not immediately. PET/CT will continue to play an important role in cancer staging and treatment monitoring, where it is considered the gold standard today. TPET’s greatest potential lies in expanding imaging into early screening and diagnosis, where PET/CT has limitations.

Since TPET does not require a circular tunnel, patients are not confined in a long, narrow scanner. The parallel detector design reduces claustrophobia and allows flexible positioning, even enabling standing scans for certain applications.

TPET can be applied broadly to many cancer types, especially when combined with blood tests like Galleri. It is particularly promising for early detection of cancers that are otherwise hard to find, as well as specialized uses in breast and prostate cancer imaging.

TPET is currently in the research and prototype development stage. Detector materials and system designs are being finalized, with prototype testing expected to follow within about a year after research completion.

While research and prototyping are advancing rapidly, widespread clinical use will depend on successful trials, regulatory approval, and commercialization. The estimated timeline is a few years from prototype completion.

TPET was co-invented by Lynda and Ronald Nutt, pioneers in medical imaging technology. Their patented innovations, combined with advancements in fast scintillators and silicon photomultiplier detectors, made TPET possible.

By making accurate, low-cost, and widely accessible cancer imaging possible, TPET has the potential to transform cancer care. Coupled with advanced blood tests, it could enable population-wide early screening, extend healthy lifespans, and significantly reduce suffering caused by late-stage cancer diagnoses.