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A computed tomography–fractional flow reserve (CT-FFR) test is a noninvasive method for evaluating blood flow through vessels affected by coronary artery disease. Using a cardiac computer tomography angiography (CTA) scan, advanced technology creates a 3D image that shows the extent of blood flow restriction through any potential blockages.
Coronary artery disease is caused by plaque buildup in the walls of the arteries that supply blood to the heart. The plaque, made up of cholesterol and other substances, causes the inside of the arteries to narrow and possibly block blood flow to the heart. Coronary artery disease can lead to a heart attack.
Identifying those blockages and their severity is a key part of deciding whether your coronary artery disease can be managed with medication, a minimally invasive procedure or heart surgery.
Norton Heart & Vascular Institute was the first in Louisville to offer CT-FFR as an option for advanced imaging analysis. Advanced imaging equipment at all four of Norton Healthcare’s adult-service hospitals in Louisville allows for the highest level of cardiac imaging available.
CT-FFR is new technology that analyzes a cardiac CTA scan to produce highly accurate, 3D images showing where blockages are located and how much they are restricting blood flow.
Norton Heart & Vascular Institute was the first in Louisville to offer this advanced imaging analysis to patients. Norton Heart & Vascular Institute has been using CT-FFR clinically since April 2020 and has been involved in research studies of CT-FFR. Norton Heart & Vascular Institute participated in the PRECISE trial and currently is participating in the RevealPlaque Trial. This experience has given the team expertise in this advanced technology.
The detail provided by CT-FFR previously was available only from a cardiac catheterization or a coronary angiogram. Angiograms are still the right option for many patients, but CT-FFR using HeartFlow technology allows many patients to have accurate imaging without an invasive procedure.
Using your cardiac CTA scan, the HeartFlow technology creates a personalized digital 3D model of your coronary arteries. The HeartFlow analysis calculates how much each blockage limits your blood flow.
After a CTA scan, which typically takes about 10 minutes, providers with expertise in advanced imaging apply CT-FFR analysis to the results. Results from CT-FFR are typically available in 24 to 48 hours.
Plaque analysis allows your care team to give you an accurate assessment of your risk of coronary artery disease, as well as a personalized treatment plan. Gathering data on the placement and type of plaque helps your physicians get a comprehensive understanding of your heart and arteries, which they use to provide precise care.
Most major insurers, including Medicare, cover the HeartFlow analysis.
The CT-FFR stands out in stories like Tony Seadler’s because of its ability to find something other tests can miss. In Tony’s case, it immediately showed a blockage in his circumflex coronary artery.
Norton Heart & Vascular Institute offers advanced care at all of our adult-service hospitals to save hearts and lives.
Norton Heart & Vascular Institute offers patient resources to support you and your family, including free classes for people of all ages who want to improve cardiovascular health or are living with a heart condition.