Northside Hospital Radiology Services is expanding its cardiac imaging offerings with advanced cardiac computed tomographic angiography exams, plaque analysis and fractional flow reserve computed tomography technology.
Cardiac computed tomographic angiography, or CCTA, is a diagnostic test that produces detailed, contrast-enhanced 3D images of the coronary arteries. This exam allows physicians to visualize coronary artery stenosis, detect plaque buildup and diagnose other cardiovascular abnormalities. One of the key advantages of CCTA is that it provides a non-invasive alternative to traditional procedures, with significantly faster turnaround times compared with conventional cardiac catheterization.
In addition to standard calcium scoring and angiography, Northside offers advanced plaque analysis. This technology uses artificial intelligence to evaluate the amount, location, and type of plaque, including soft plaque that may not be visible on standard calcium scoring exams. The analysis provides a more comprehensive assessment of coronary artery disease and supports more personalized patient management.
Physicians may also use fractional flow reserve computed tomography, or FFRCT, analysis, which evaluates blood flow through the coronary arteries using data from the CT images. This non-invasive approach helps determine whether arterial blockages are likely to impair blood flow, often reducing the need for additional invasive testing.
"The addition of quantitative plaque analysis to our suite of tools for analyzing CCTA, in addition to current capabilities like CTFFR, allows us to evaluate what is truly happening inside the hearts of patients to a degree we have not been able to before, said Dr. John Carmichael Ricketts, cardiologist at Northside Hospital Heart Institute.
“We hope that this allows us to continue to improve the care we provide to patients by giving us more personalized, actionable data to prevent heart attacks, which remains the leading cause of death in the United States."
Early detection of coronary artery disease allows patients and physicians to implement lifestyle modifications and medical therapies that can help prevent future cardiac events.
The advanced technology is available at all five Northside hospitals, as well as outpatient imaging centers in Buford, Canton, Cumming, Gainesville, Lawrenceville, Sandy Springs and Smyrna.
Appointments can be scheduled by calling 404-851-6577 or 678-312-3444.
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