ZGT and University of Twente (UT) are working closely together on research and development of solutions for personalised, patient-focused care. This collaboration is strengthened by the appointment of two ZGT medical specialists as Associate Professors at the UT.
According to scientific director Nico Verdonschot from the TechMed Centre, the appointment of these two medical specialists at the UT is a great example of how the UT operates within a clinical network that also includes ZGT as a partner. Intensive collaboration between medical professionals and researchers is of great value to achieving actual impact in healthcare, as is one of the UT’s objectives.
Care for elderly patients with a fracture
Within the faculty of Electrical engineering, Mathematics and Computer Science, trauma surgeon Han Hegeman mainly focuses on new developments related to trauma surgery involving vulnerable elderly people: “The aim is to improve the care offered to elderly patients suffering from a fracture by utilising new technologies that can optimise the treatment outcome”, explains Hegeman. For instance, he is working on technologies that monitor recovery and support the patient to be autonomous in the recovery process.
In addition, Hegeman uses so-called machine learning to examine whether enhanced decision-making can be achieved through better predictions for treatment outcomes. “Smart utilisation of the large volume of available data offers opportunities to make sure the quality of care for our (elderly) patients becomes even better.”
Further development of medical imaging
As part of the faculty for Science and Technology, radiologist Jeroen Veltman will focus on the further development of medical imaging. This mainly involves the development of diagnostic imaging and radiological intervention as part of examinations for breast cancer and prostate cancer. One example is the breast cancer biopsy robot. “These brand-new technologies help to determine abnormalities in the breast sooner and better, for example,” says Veltman.
Science more and more part of daily life
Both specialists have already started their work for the UT. Initial experiences are very positive. The added value of the connection between care and technological research and education is clearly visible already. Scientific thought processes in healthcare workplaces are becoming more and more part of daily life.
