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Researchers at Cedars-Sinai have unveiled a groundbreaking application of artificial intelligence (AI) that accurately evaluates cardiovascular risk during routine chest computed tomography (CT) scans, without the need for contrast dye. This innovative imaging approach, detailed in a study published in Nature Communications, offers a less invasive and cost-effective method for identifying cardiovascular risk factors.
Led by Dr. Piotr J. Slomka, director of Innovation in Imaging at Cedars-Sinai, the study demonstrates how AI can analyze coronary calcium levels and heart chamber sizes, derived from non-contrast CT scans, to assess cardiovascular risk with remarkable accuracy.
Dr. Slomka underscores the potential of this technology to revolutionize cardiovascular risk assessment, particularly for patients who may be unable to undergo invasive tests or contrast-enhanced imaging procedures. With over 15 million CT scans performed annually in the U.S., the integration of AI-driven analysis into routine diagnostic protocols could significantly enhance patient care and outcomes.
“Our study reveals the transformative impact of AI in cardiovascular risk evaluation, leveraging existing CT scans to provide invaluable insights into heart health,” explains Dr. Slomka, who also serves as a professor of Cardiology at the Cedars-Sinai Smidt Heart Institute.
Traditionally, clinicians relied on contrast-enhanced CT scans to assess cardiovascular risk, but this approach posed limitations for certain patient populations. By harnessing AI algorithms, researchers were able to analyze data from nearly 30,000 patient imaging records, demonstrating that measures of coronary calcium and heart chamber sizes offer superior predictive value for cardiac risk assessment compared to traditional methods.
Dr. Sumeet Chugh, director of the Division of Artificial Intelligence in Medicine at Cedars-Sinai, highlights the public health implications of this technology. Given that coronary artery disease remains a leading cause of disability and death globally, the ability to leverage existing CT images for early detection of cardiovascular risk factors holds immense promise for improving population health.
“These findings underscore the potential of AI tools to drive impactful, cost-effective interventions in heart disease prevention,” says Dr. Chugh, emphasizing the significance of leveraging AI-driven insights to address the growing burden of cardiovascular disease.
The study’s publication marks a significant milestone in the integration of AI into cardiovascular care, paving the way for more widespread adoption of non-invasive, AI-driven approaches to cardiovascular risk assessment. As AI continues to revolutionize medical imaging and diagnostics, Cedars-Sinai remains at the forefront of pioneering research aimed at enhancing patient outcomes and advancing precision medicine.
