Smart Human-centred Effortless support for Professional clinical Applications

Interventional radiology (IR) uses medical imaging to guide minimally invasive treatments, offering faster recovery for patients but placing high demands on clinical specialists. IR procedures are complex, high-risk, and require extensive training, while the field faces a growing shortage of experienced staff and high levels of burnout.

The SHERPA project aims to support interventional radiologists by developing artificial intelligence (AI)–based assistive technologies that act as a trusted clinical companion. These tools will support decision-making, simplify treatment planning, automate repetitive tasks, and provide real-time guidance during interventions.

SHERPA focuses on two complex clinical applications: endovascular treatment of intracranial aneurysms and thermal ablation of liver tumours. The developed technologies will be validated through clinical studies and made available to the wider interventional radiology community, with the goal of improving patient outcomes and ensuring a more sustainable clinical workflow.

Interventional radiology allows doctors to treat patients using imaging, such as X-rays, instead of major surgery. While these treatments are less invasive for patients, they are highly complex and require great expertise from doctors, who are already in short supply.

The SHERPA project develops intelligent computer tools that help doctors plan and carry out these procedures more safely and efficiently. Acting like a supportive assistant, these tools help with decision-making and routine tasks so doctors can focus on the patient.

SHERPA focuses on treating brain aneurysms and liver tumours, two challenging procedures that require a high level of skill. By supporting doctors with smart technology, SHERPA aims to improve patient care and reduce pressure on healthcare professionals.