Pioneering technology is proving vital in helping clinicians diagnose coronary heart disease (CHD) in the North East.

Newcastle Hospitals began using Heartflow Analysis in 2018 to help its fight against one of the UK’s biggest killers.

The unique technology helps doctors quickly diagnose CHD – which accounts for a quarter of deaths in the region – and decide the appropriate treatment for patients.

HeartFlow Analysis takes data from a CT scan and uses deep learning technology and highly trained analysts to create a personalised, digital 3D model of the patient’s coronary arteries. Its algorithms solve millions of equations to simulate blood flow in a patient’s arteries to help clinicians assess the impact of any blockages.

In many cases, the information provided by the HeartFlow Analysis may help physicians recommend not having an invasive diagnostic procedure, which carry risks of complication, and is estimated to save the NHS £214 per patient.

To mark World Heart Day, Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust has published two-year results of its use of the ground-breaking technology.

Patients can now be diagnosed with CHD in days to weeks, and in one hospital visit, through the CT-first approach.

Patients endure reduced waiting times and spend less time interacting with medical professionals in person, something that has been critical following the outbreak of coronavirus.

Dr Anna Beattie, consultant cardiothoracic radiologist at Newcastle Hospitals, said: “We have used the HeartFlow Analysis in Newcastle Hospitals for two years now, and it has contributed to significant changes in the way we diagnose patients and use hospital resources.

“Nearly 45% of those expected to have CHD will now have a CT-scan and HeartFlow Analysis, which has risen from 28% previously, and meant the number of diagnostic-only invasive angiograms we perform has reduced. It is great for patients as it reduces unnecessary risks and means they spend less time in hospitals.”

She added: “We want to promote these findings on World Heart Day so that more people recognise CHD symptoms to facilitate earlier diagnosis, and reduce the risk of heart attacks. Our hospitals have taken a leading position in the diagnosis of heart disease globally with the roll out of this innovative technology, and it’s important people are aware of its benefits.”

Before the adoption of the HeartFlow Analysis, 50% of rapid access chest pain clinic patients referred for an invasive angiogram were found to not need revascularisation.

Since adding the HeartFlow Analysis to the diagnostic pathway, the rate of invasive investigation without treatment has decreased to 14%, indicating physicians’ ability to identify patients who require revascularisation has significantly improved with the information provided by the HeartFlow Analysis.

HeartFlow’s technology is already used in 56 NHS hospitals across England with plans for it to be extended to around 70 by the end of the year.

Lance Scott, chief commercial officer at HeartFlow said: “NHS England leads the world with its approach to CHD diagnosis, one of the country’s biggest killers. We’re pleased to be working with Newcastle upon Tyne Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust to streamline the patient diagnostic experience and reduce unnecessary procedures.

“During the global pandemic, the CTA-HeartFlow diagnostic pathway has meant patients spend less time in hospitals, and it’s a good example of how the NHS’s approach of adopting leading digital technologies is helping the public health service to become more efficient.”