Accurately assessing the severity of a blockage in a coronary artery can be a challenge. Interventional cardiologists at CentraState now have access to cutting-edge technology that combines 3D cardiac imaging with artificial intelligence. Called CathWorks FFRangio®, the system improves artery visualization and facilitates a more customized treatment plan with a less invasive approach.
“When determining the correct plan of care for a patient with a coronary blockage, understanding the level at which blood flow is impeded is key,” explains Jatinchandra Patel, DO, medical director of CentraState’s Robertshaw Cardiovascular Interventional Center. “When an artery is 70% blocked or more, angioplasty and stenting clearly help. But stenting is not recommended when an artery is only 20% to 69% blocked.”
Until now, the percentage of the blockage has been based on a visual estimation. The new CathWorks FFRangio technology allows interventional cardiologists to evaluate the reduction in blood flow with scientific certainty, not just an estimation.
The Traditional Approach
An angiogram is typically used to assess a blockage. During this test, a catheter (tiny tube) is threaded through an IV to the artery, and video X-rays are used to look at the heart’s blood vessel as dye is injected into the artery. A diagnostic measurement called fractional flow reserve (FFR) evaluates blood pressure and flow through the artery to assess the amount of narrowing. This traditionally has been performed by advancing a wire into the artery to obtain these measurements.
If the FFR value confirms that blood flow is significantly reduced, the interventional cardiologist may choose to insert a stent to keep the artery open. If the FFR value suggests a blockage is not limiting blood flow, medication is usually recommended instead of placing a stent.
Benefits of New Technology
CathWorks FFRangio allows the interventional cardiologist to measure FFR without the need for the more invasive procedure of placing a wire into the artery. Through its partnership with Atlantic Health System, CentraState is the first hospital in Central New Jersey with this technology.
The system builds a 3D coronary artery model by combining images from three two-dimensional angiograms (video X-rays). Then, the system’s algorithm determines the FFR, the size of the cardiac vessels and the location of any blockages – all without a more invasive procedure, additional medications or prolonged observation.
“This technology enables us to make more accurate, evidence-based treatment decisions without additional uncomfortable procedures using wires, which decreases the risk for complications,” explains Aaron VanHise, DO, who performed the first assessment at CentraState using CathWorks FFRangio. “It provides physicians with an important decision-making tool that ultimately benefits patients.”
Dr. Patel adds, “This system is an innovative addition to our toolkit, enabling us to give patients the best possible treatment and outcomes with the least amount of risk.”
“This technology enables us to make more accurate, evidence-based treatment decisions without additional uncomfortable procedures using wires, which decreases the risk for complications,” explains Aaron VanHise, DO, who performed the first assessment at CentraState using CathWorks FFRangio. “It provides physicians with an important decision-making tool that ultimately benefits patients.”
Dr. Patel adds, “This system is an innovative addition to our toolkit, enabling us to give patients the best possible treatment and outcomes with the least amount of risk.”
CARDIOLOGY SERVICES AT CENTRASTATE
Learn more about cardiology services at CentraState.
