CT-FFR HeartFlow

Dorset Heart Clinic announced today that it is the only Private Provider in Dorset to offer HeartFlow Analysis, a first-of-its-kind non-invasive technology to aid doctors in the diagnoses of coronary artery disease (CAD), the most common form of heart disease.

Coronary artery disease (CAD) is the leading cause of death for both men and women in the United Kingdom. CAD develops when the arteries leading to the heart narrow or become blocked, which may lead to a reduction in blood flow to the heart, causing chest pain, heart attacks and death. Despite being the most common form of heart disease, studies have shown there is a need to improve how CAD is evaluated and diagnosed. Many of the non-invasive tests available today have low accuracy rates in detecting CAD. Additionally, a recent study found more than half of patients with suspected CAD who underwent an invasive coronary angiogram (ICA) had no need for intervention since no blood flow-limiting blockage was found during the procedure.

New Non-Invasive Test Can Help Doctors Diagnose and Treat Heart Disease, and Reduce Costs

“Historically, we have been faced with either using tests that were frequently inaccurate or putting a patient through an invasive procedure just to determine whether they would need another invasive procedure to restore blood flow.” said Dr. Peter O’Kane, Consultant Cardiologist, Dorset Heart Clinic. “The HeartFlow Analysis completely changes this paradigm, providing essential information that can help us determine the right approach for a patient through a convenient, non-invasive platform.”

The CT-FFR procedure differs in that the CT scan data can be transferred, via cloud technology, to the HeartFlow team, who are able to analyse the data and create a personalised 3D model of the heart and arteries. From there, algorithms are created to assess the impact of blockages on blood flow. The result of this is a colour-coded picture that is used to determine further treatment, which is sent to Dorset Heart Clinic within 24 hours.

How it works:-

  1. If you are experiencing cardiac chest symptoms you will be referred for a standard CT scan, providing detailed pictures of the coronary arteries
  2. If these CT images show indications of disease, this will then be sent to HeartFlow to create a computerised 3D model of the coronary arteries
  3. Trained specialists and proven calculations with powerful computers will assess the blood flow in the arteries
  4. Your consultant receives a digital 3D colour coded model of the blood flow, aiding in diagnosing blockages and will be able to make a diagnosis and treatment plan for you


To find out more or to book an appointment with a cardiologist, please contact our DHC office from 9:00am-5:00pm Monday to Friday, on 01202 117250 or request a callback here.

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