Spectrabreast – a EU EIC #Pathfinder project, aiming at enhance breast-conserving surgery using spectroscopy and AI

An EU-funded initiative, this project will provide surgeons with a fast, real-time tool for accurate tumor margin assessment, using innovative optical techniques and AI to enhance surgical precision and improve patient outcomes.

Spectra-BREAST aims to enhance breast-conserving surgery by developing a cutting-edge intraoperative tool for real-time, accurate assessment of tumor resection margins.

The project brings together a strong consortium of 6 partners, including 1 research hospital, 3 academic research centers, and 2 innovative companies.

Running from 2025 to 2028, Spectra-BREAST is funded with approximately €3 million by the European Innovation Council under the Pathfinder Open 2024 framework (Call HORIZON-EIC-2024-PATHFINDEROPEN-01-01).

Clinical overview

The Challenge in Breast Cancer Surgery

Breast-conserving surgery aims to remove cancerous tissue while preserving healthy breast tissue. However, incomplete tumor removal occurs in about 20% of cases, leading to additional surgeries, increased healthcare costs, and emotional and physical stress for patients. Current margin assessment methods are slow, subjective, and not always accurate. There is a critical need for a fast, reliable, and objective solution to guide surgeons during operations and ensure complete tumor removal.

Innovation

Smart Technologies

SpectraBREAST introduces an innovative, multimodal technology that combines Hyperspectral Imaging (HSI), fiber-optic Raman Spectroscopy (RS), and advanced AI algorithms. This integrated system will provide real-time, high-accuracy feedback on tumor margins within a few minutes, helping surgeons identify and remove residual cancerous tissue during the initial surgery. This solution aims to significantly reduce reoperations, improve patient outcomes, and lower healthcare costs

Partners

Nations involved

Millions funding

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Months duration

Interview with Dario Polli: Identify the removed tissue in real time

February 10, 2025

(This interview was translated to English from the original Italian version, below) Born from a real clinical need, dictated by the surgeon’s desire to be sure of having removed the tumor mass without compromising healthy tissue, the Spectra-BREAST initiative is funded by the European Innovation Council under the Pathfinder Open 2024 program with approximately 3 million euros. Launched in December

Spectra-BREAST Project Kicks Off in Pavia

January 8, 2025

On January 16–17, 2025, the Spectra-BREAST consortium officially launched the project with a successful kick-off meeting at ICS Maugeri Hospital in Pavia. Partners from six institutions gathered to align goals, discuss work plans, and strengthen collaboration. The meeting included visits to the hospital’s advanced laboratories and pathology unit, providing valuable insight into the clinical workflow. Beyond the technical discussions, participants

Funded by the European Union’s Horizon Europe research and innovation programme (grant agreement No 101187508).

Views and opinions expressed are however those of the author(s) only and do not necessarily reflect those of the European Union or European Innovation Council. Neither the European Union nor the granting authority can be held responsible for them.