Philips Japan Launches SmartIQ Technology: Advanced Imaging for High-Quality, Low-Burden Cardiac Catheterization Procedures

Philips Japan Co., Ltd. (Headquarters: Minato-ku, Tokyo; President and CEO: Misako Abe; hereinafter 'Philips') announces the launch of 'SmartIQ Technology,' a new imaging technology compatible with the Azurion image-guided therapy system for cardiac catheterization procedures, starting Tuesday, July 14, 2024.

In Japan, cardiovascular diseases are increasing due to the aging population, while demand is rising for reducing patient burden and improving healthcare professionals' operational efficiency. As minimally invasive catheterization procedures play an increasingly vital role, there is an urgent need to simultaneously achieve 'high image quality' for accurately assessing lesions and 'reduced burden' by minimizing radiation exposure, contrast agent usage, and procedure time.

SmartIQ Technology, launched by Philips, was co-developed with leading cardiovascular centers. Utilizing real-time image algorithms, it maintains high image quality during complex procedures while supporting reductions in radiation dose and contrast agent consumption.

Key Features of SmartIQ Technology:

1. Content-Aware Imaging Algorithm for High Image Quality

Using a mathematical model that combines fundamental principles of X-ray physics with clinical data, this algorithm intelligently separates clinically significant image information from background noise.

2. Ultralow Dose Protocol for High Quality at Fluoroscopy-Level Dose

By reducing the separated noise, this protocol achieves high image quality even at X-ray dose levels comparable to fluoroscopy.

3. Low Contrast Protocol for Maintaining Image Quality

By selectively enhancing the key contrast of interest, this protocol supports the maintenance of image quality even when using low-concentration contrast agents.

4. SafeGuard Design for Image Information Integrity

Designed with a system that continuously compares processed images with original images, ensuring the integrity of clinical information relevant to diagnosis and treatment is safely maintained.

5. Protocol Selection Designed for Clinical Needs

From routine examinations to complex coronary interventions, physicians can conveniently select the optimal protocol at the bedside based on purpose and clinical situation. The technology is also compatible with existing Azurion systems.

Upcoming Exhibitions:

To communicate the benefits of this technology to a broader audience of healthcare professionals, Philips plans to showcase images and demonstrations using SmartIQ at academic conferences, including CVIT 2026 (Japan Association of Cardiovascular Intervention and Therapeutics), scheduled for 2026.

Product Name: Azurion X-ray Angiography System

Medical Device Certification Number: 228ACBZX00012000

Installed and Managed Medical Device / Specified Maintenance-Managed Medical Device / Managed Medical Device

About Philips Japan

Philips Japan Co., Ltd., established in 1953 as the Japanese subsidiary of Royal Philips, aims to improve people’s health and well-being through leadership in healthcare technology, including the development and provision of medical devices. Its primary business areas span diagnostic imaging, ultrasound, image-guided therapy, patient monitoring, health informatics, sleep and respiratory care, medical equipment, and personal health products such as electric shavers and electric toothbrushes. The company contributes to solving Japan’s healthcare and wellness challenges amid its rapidly aging society, striving to enhance people’s health and quality of life.

Philips Japan employs approximately 2,000 people and operates across about 70 locations in Japan. (https://www.philips.co.jp)

About Royal Philips

Royal Philips (NYSE: PHG, AEX: PHI) is a leading health technology company dedicated to improving people’s health and well-being through innovative solutions. Philips designs its technologies around people, leveraging advanced technology and insights from healthcare professionals and consumers to deliver personal health solutions for consumers and professional healthcare solutions for clinicians and their patients in hospitals and homes. Headquartered in the Netherlands, Philips leads globally in diagnostic imaging, ultrasound, image-guided therapy, patient monitoring, health informatics, and personal health. Philips achieved EUR 18 billion in sales in 2025, employs approximately 64,800 people worldwide, and operates in over 100 countries. For the latest news from Philips, visit (http://www.philips.com/newscenter/)