Spectral computed tomography (CT) is a scanning device that is used for medical Imaging for diagnosis in case of cancer, tumor development, cardiovascular impairment, aneurysm and other bone related disorders. Spectral CT has been considered as the next phase of the widely accepted computed tomography (CT) providing an effective imaging modality. 

The computed tomography reconstructs an object's internal structure, from a sequence of X-ray transmission images. Computed tomography functions by detecting the number of photons that hits the detector and attenuation in relation to the photons emitted by the X-ray tube that does not interact with the body. However, these detectors do not differentiate among the varied frequencies of the photons and provide monochromatic reconstructed image. These limitations of conventional CT support the development of spectral CT, leading to an increase in the growth of the overall spectral CT market.

The global spectral CT market is segmented based on product type, application, type, technology, and end user. On the basis of product type, the market is segmented into spiral CT, electron beam tomography, and multi-slice computed tomography.

On the basis of application, the market is categorized into cardiovascular, neurovascular, spinal, musculoskeletal disorder and others. Based on type, the segments include cardiac imaging, neutral imaging, clinical imaging and others.

The spectral CT market is segmented into dual layer detector and gemstone spectral imaging detector, based on technology. Globally, the demand for spectral CT products was largest in hospitals and is expected to remain so during the forecast period 2017-2023, due to the increasing prevalence of diseases such as cancer, cardiovascular disorders and neurological disorders. Other key end user in the spectral CT market include private clinics, diagnostic and imaging center; academic institutes and research center; and others.

The spectral CT is an evolving field and holds potential in several applications that are yet to be explored, such as–mammography, oncology and emergency department. In March 2015, Koninklijke Philips N.V. collaborated with University of California to investigate applications of spectral imaging in mammography. Similarly, other manufacturers are also investing in R&D to explore several other clinical applications of spectral CT.

North America holds the largest share of the global spectral CT market due to rise in geriatric population and increasing prevalence of diseases in the region. The ease of accessibility to advanced technologies is expected to make North America leading the spectral CT market followed by Europe. Asia-Pacific is expected to witness the fastest growth due to the rising awareness among the population with respect to healthcare and consequent increase in healthcare expenditure.

In November 2014, Siemens Healthcare GmbH received USFDA clearance on its Siemens' syngo.CT Single Source Dual Energy software package, enabling spectral imaging using single source CT scanner.

The other players in the spectral CT market are Hitachi medical corporation, NeuroLogica Corp, Neusoft Medical Systems, Shenzhen Anke High-tech Co., Ltd.