AI-Enhanced 3D Heart Scans Improve Diagnosis and Save NHS Millions

Introduction

Coronary heart disease, affecting 2.3 million people in England, develops when fatty deposits narrow the coronary arteries, limiting blood flow to the heart. Traditional diagnostic methods often involve invasive procedures like angiograms.

Implementation and Benefits

The AI-based 3D heart scan technology, known as HeartFlow Analysis, creates personalised 3D models of a patient’s coronary arteries from CT scans. This allows for accurate assessment of blockages without the need for invasive tests.

A study published in Nature Medicine found that this approach reduced unnecessary angiograms by 16% in cases where no further treatment was needed and decreased the number of secondary heart tests by 12% over two years.

Since its NHS rollout in 2021, over 24,300 patients have benefited from this technology, with 6,898 patients accessing it in the last year alone. The NHS estimates savings of approximately £390 per patient, totaling around £9.5 million.

Patient Experience

Sarah Remnant from Portsmouth experienced severe chest pains and breathlessness. The 3D heart scan identified a significant artery narrowing, allowing for prompt treatment planning. She underwent stent surgery a few days later and reported a full recovery, expressing gratitude for the technology that facilitated her diagnosis and treatment.

Conclusion

The integration of AI-driven 3D heart scans into NHS services exemplifies how technological advancements can enhance patient care, reduce the need for invasive procedures, and achieve significant cost savings. This innovation aligns with the NHS’s commitment to adopting cutting-edge solutions for improved healthcare outcomes.

Citation:
NHS England. (2025, May 6). Futuristic 3D heart scans on NHS speed up diagnosis and save millions. NHS England