Computed Tomography

Cardiac computed tomography (CT) has become a primary cardiovascular imaging modality in the past 20 years, and was recommended as a 1A recommendation in the 2021 chest pain assessment guidelines. CT calcium scoring has became a primary risk assessment for coronary artery disease and whether patients should be on statins. Coronary CT angiography (CCTA) is used to for anatomical assessment of the arteries for plaque burden and to identify areas of blockage that may cause ischemia and heart attacks. Additional use of contrast CT perfusion or fractional flow reserve CT (FFR-CT) can offer physiological information on the function of the heart. CT plays a primary role in structural heart assessments for heart valves, repair of congenital defects and left atrial appendage occlusion (LAAO) for both pre-procedure planning and procedural guidance. Find more news on general radiology CT use.

HeartFlow introduced its next generation artificial intelligence (AI) Plaque Analysis with an interactive experience at SCCT 2024. It shows a 3D plaque model and analysis by territory across calcified, non-calcified and low-attenuation plaques. This includes viewing cross-sectional, color-coded images of each plaque type where it was quantified along the vessel. #SCCT #SCCT24 #SCCT2024

Updated HeartFlow technology offers interactive features, full integration with FFR-CT 

HeartFlow is using SCCT 2024 to introduce the world to its updated Plaque Analysis platform. “Accurately diagnosing a patient’s risk for coronary artery disease is critical for determining the best treatment," Chief Medical Officer Campbell Rogers, MD, explained.

Researchers with University College London and the European Synchrotron Radiation Facility (ESRF) have used a new X-ray technique, hierarchical phase-contrast tomography (HiP-CT), to capture images of the human heart in unprecedented detail. The group shared its images, as well as a full analysis, in Radiology.[1]

New imaging technique captures human heart with 'unprecedented detail'

The new images were captured at the European Synchrotron Radiation Facility using hierarchical phase-contrast tomography. One specialist called them "Google Earth for the human heart." 

SCCT aims to provide common language for CCTA use with updated guidance

The Society of Cardiovascular Computed Tomography has developed a new expert consensus document designed to get physicians on the same page when discussing this growing technology. 

The rapid rise of artificial intelligence (AI) has helped cardiologists, radiologists, nurses and other healthcare providers embrace precision medicine in a way that ensures more heart patients are receiving personalized care.

AI uses imaging results to ID high-risk TAVR patients with speed, accuracy

Researchers developed an advanced AI model capable of extracting measurements from unprocessed CT images in seconds. It then uses those data to evaluate the patient's mortality risk if they underwent TAVR.

HeartFlow Plaque Analysis

AI-based coronary plaque assessments 1 step closer to Medicare coverage

According to a new proposal, using AI to evaluate CCTA results and quantify plaque buildup is “reasonable and medically necessary” in certain clinical scenarios.

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Osteosarcopenia linked to much higher risk of death after TAVR—CT screening may prove valuable

Osteosarcopenia, an age-related condition associated with deterioration in the muscles and bones, nearly triples a patient’s risk of dying within one year of undergoing TAVR. 

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Cardiologists ID signs of widespread heart disease in ancient mummies

Researchers evaluated vascular samples from more than 200 mummies, presenting their findings in European Heart Journal.

HeartFlow Plaque Analysis

AI-powered coronary plaque assessments show ‘strong agreement’ with IVUS

HeartFlow's noninvasive Plaque Analysis technology, which uses AI to evaluate CCTA images, delivered assessments that mostly lined up with IVUS results. 

Around the web

Ron Blankstein, MD, professor of radiology, Harvard Medical School, explains the use of artificial intelligence to detect heart disease in non-cardiac CT exams.

Eleven medical societies have signed on to a consensus statement aimed at standardizing imaging for suspected cardiovascular infections.

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