Stony Brook Medicine has launched HeartFlow Plaque Analysis™, an AI technology enhancing coronary artery disease diagnosis, aimed at early detection and personalized treatment plans for patients at risk. The collaboration between its Divisions of Cardiology and Radiology signals a major advancement in methods to combat heart disease, particularly on Long Island, where risk factors are notably higher.
STONY BROOK, NY, May 14, 2024 — In a groundbreaking move, Stony Brook Medicine has become the first institution on Long Island to adopt the HeartFlow Plaque Analysis™ technology, harnessing artificial intelligence (AI) to identify blockages in coronary arteries more accurately. This leap forward in heart disease diagnosis comes through a collaboration between the Division of Cardiology and the Department of Radiology, marking a significant step in the ongoing battle against this leading cause of death across the country.
Michael Park, MD, a cardiologist at Stony Brook Medicine, passionately noted, “This innovative AI technology offers a comprehensive assessment of a patient’s coronary artery disease with details that were previously unattainable with standard cardiac CT.” It’s this unprecedented level of detail that lets physicians gauge cholesterol and plaque levels in arteries, paving the way for tailored treatment plans aimed at reducing cardiovascular risks and enhancing patients’ quality of life.
Hal A. Skopicki, MD, PhD, who serves as Co-Director of Stony Brook Heart Institute, articulated the hospital’s commitment to innovation: “At Stony Brook Medicine, we are continuously pushing the boundaries of innovation in the diagnosis, prevention, and treatment of heart disease.” The new AI technology is being rolled out at several locations: Commack, Stony Brook, and Riverhead, all to ensure timely and precise intervention, ultimately enhancing patient outcomes.
Coronary artery disease (CAD) isn’t just another health issue; it’s a widespread concern, impacting nearly half of adults in the U.S. and stemming from cholesterol plaque buildup that can choke off blood flow to the heart. Given Long Island’s unfortunate status as having a higher-than-average rate of heart disease risk factors, early detection is vital. By integrating HeartFlow Plaque Analysis™, the hospital combines detailed CT scans with sophisticated AI algorithms, creating a valuable resource for doctors in assessing plaque accumulation.
On Chen, MD, who leads the Center for Advanced Lipid Management at Stony Brook, spoke to the importance of early intervention. He remarked, “As an interventional cardiologist, I often see patients who come to us after years of untreated coronary artery disease, frequently with irreversible damage.” Early identification of plaque not only reduces the need for invasive cardiac catheterizations but gives a crucial edge in boosting community health.
This technology stands to benefit those most at risk, like individuals with conditions such as hypertension, diabetes, or even just a family history of heart issues. If you’ve had inconclusive stress tests or unexplained chest pains, HeartFlow offers the clarity that could mean everything. Dr. Park encourages patients to reach out and ask their doctors about this technology or to consider a consultation with a Stony Brook cardiologist to explore their options further.
Stony Brook Medicine is making strides in heart disease diagnostic technology by introducing HeartFlow Plaque Analysis™, the first of its kind on Long Island. This AI-driven method allows for precise evaluation of coronary artery disease, vital in a region facing high risks. The collaboration between departments signifies a commitment to improving patient outcomes through early detection and personalized treatment plans. As heart disease remains a leading cause of death, advancements like these are essential for fostering better health in the community.
Original Source: news.stonybrook.edu
