As reported by Digital Health, AI-powered heart scans are transforming cardiac care across the NHS. An analysis has revealed that the use of AI technology, now implemented in 56 hospitals across England since 2021, has already saved the NHS an estimated £9.5 million, or roughly £390 per patient
The system uses artificial intelligence to convert standard CT scans into detailed, personalised 3D models of the heart. These scans help doctors assess blood flow and identify blockages without the need for invasive angiograms.
A landmark study, published in Nature Medicine on 4 April 2025, found that the technology reduced unnecessary invasive angiogram tests by 16% in cases where no further treatment was needed, and by 7% overall. It also reduced the need for second heart tests within two years by 12%.
Dr Vin Diwakar, national director of transformation at NHS England, praised the innovation, stating: “It is fantastic to see that these revolutionary AI-driven 3D heart scans, supported by NHSE, are transforming cardiac care by significantly reducing the need for invasive tests, speeding up diagnoses, conserving NHS resources, and enabling clinicians to advise patients on the best treatment for their condition.”
The study, funded by the Medical Research Council, analysed data from 90,000 NHS patients between 2017 and 2020, with nearly 8,000 receiving analysis. It concluded that personalised AI imaging not only reduces risky, unnecessary procedures but also improves diagnostic accuracy – ensuring more patients receive the right treatment sooner.
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