Philips, a global leader in health technology, has acquired SpectraWAVE, a U.S.-based company specializing in AI-driven coronary imaging. This strategic move aims to strengthen Philips’ capabilities in real-time coronary imaging and image-guided therapy, especially for treating heart disease. By adding SpectraWAVE’s AI solutions to its portfolio, Philips intends to give clinicians more accurate tools for diagnosing and treating coronary artery disease, ultimately improving patient outcomes.
Roy Jakobs, CEO of Philips, said the acquisition aligns with the company’s mission to advance cardiac care. He explained that integrating SpectraWAVE’s AI-powered technologies in intravascular imaging and angio-based physiological assessment will help more patients benefit from accurate, real-time diagnostics and interventional support. This move reflects Philips’ strategy of combining advanced imaging with artificial intelligence to transform cardiovascular care.
Cutting-Edge AI Solutions from SpectraWAVE
SpectraWAVE is best known for its X1-FFR software, which recently received FDA clearance. The software allows clinicians to perform pressure-wire-free fractional flow reserve (FFR) measurements during angiograms. This reduces the need for invasive guidewires. Using AI, X1-FFR automatically tracks blood vessels and calculates real-time blood flow, helping doctors make precise decisions about stent placement and other procedures.
The company also offers the HyperVue system, which combines optical coherence tomography (OCT) with near-infrared spectroscopy. HyperVue provides detailed images of plaque and calcium deposits inside arteries. These images help clinicians better understand disease progression and plan treatments more effectively. Its high-resolution imaging supports safer and more successful interventions.
Eman Namati, CEO of SpectraWAVE, highlighted the benefits of joining Philips. He said that integrating their AI and imaging solutions with Philips’ platforms would allow their technology to scale globally. This will help deliver more consistent care to millions of patients. The partnership also shows Philips’ commitment to improving workflow efficiency and treatment accuracy in cardiovascular care.
Integration and Impact on Cardiovascular Care
Philips plans to integrate SpectraWAVE’s technologies with its Azurion image-guided intervention system, as well as Eagle Eye Platinum and IntraSight intravascular ultrasound technologies. This combination of AI software and advanced hardware streamlines workflows, shortens procedure times, and enhances patient safety.
SpectraWAVE, based in Massachusetts, employs about 70 people. This deal strengthens Philips’ leadership in cardiovascular innovation. Integrating AI-based imaging from SpectraWAVE allows faster, more precise diagnoses and supports cardiologists in complex procedures. AI combined with real-time imaging can also identify patients at higher risk of cardiac events, enabling early intervention and more personalized treatment. Combining these platforms, Philips provides imaging, assessment, and guidance, with X1-FFR supporting cases where guidewires are unsuitable.
The acquisition reflects a broader trend in medical technology. Hospitals are increasingly seeking solutions that combine real-time imaging with AI analysis to improve decision-making and patient outcomes. Philips’ acquisition of SpectraWAVE positions the company to meet this growing demand while accelerating innovation in coronary care. Together, Philips and SpectraWAVE aim to provide clinicians with a more unified, intelligent, and precise approach to treating coronary artery disease. As AI and advanced imaging continue to evolve, such collaborations are set to redefine how cardiovascular diseases are diagnosed and managed.
