Looking at the heart through non-invasive methods
Computed tomography (CT) scanners have been used in medicine and healthcare for around half a century – but their versatility in mapping the interior structures of the body are limited when it comes to moving objects. This has historically been the case with a major organ such as the heart, which therefore necessitates more invasive and therefore risky methods of analysis. But that has changed now, thanks to the work of Professor Carl Roobottom, an Honorary Consultant at the University and a Radiographer at Derriford Hospital.
For around 15 years, Carl has used new and improving computing techniques to upgrade the capabilities of CT technology, enabling it to peer into a beating heart. Beginning with relatively healthy coronary arteries, Carl was able to refine his methods for those arteries with calcium deposits in them, or those that had previously had surgery or stents implanted. Having proven the technique, he then began to disseminate it, firstly through research papers but then more profoundly via educational courses and materials, and then a national training and accreditation process.
The work has also made a significant impact in dealing with the very sudden and very serious cases where an apparently healthy person manifests as having coronary artery disease. Thanks to this new form of CT coronary angiography, doctors can identify the disease within the wall of the vessel, rather than just the narrowing it causes, ensuring it can be picked up early and treated.