Mercy Health is expanding its cardiac care capabilities with the introduction of advanced imaging technology designed to help physicians better understand coronary artery disease (CAD) and determine the most appropriate treatment for each patient.
The new technology, powered by Heartflow Analysis, uses images from a standard coronary computed tomography angiography (CCTA) scan to create a personalized, three-dimensional model of a patient’s heart. This model provides physicians with a more detailed view of coronary arteries, including the location and characteristics of plaque buildup and how it may be affecting blood flow.
By combining advanced imaging with artificial intelligence, the technology helps care teams identify whether a patient may benefit from medication, lifestyle changes, further monitoring or an intervention — supporting more informed, individualized care decisions.
“Having a clearer picture of what is happening inside a patient’s heart allows us to better understand their risk and tailor treatment to their specific needs,” said Dr. Tariq Rizvi, interventionalist cardiologist at Mercy Health. “This technology provides another tool to help us detect coronary artery disease earlier and deliver the right care at the right time.”
Coronary artery disease remains one of the most common forms of heart disease and occurs when plaque builds up in the arteries that supply blood to the heart. Over time, this buildup can restrict blood flow and increase the risk of chest pain, heart attack and other serious complications.
Many people with CAD may have few or no noticeable symptoms, making early detection and accurate evaluation especially important. Advanced imaging tools can help physicians identify issues that may not be visible through traditional testing alone and provide a more complete picture of a patient’s cardiovascular health.
“At Mercy Health, we’re continuing to invest in innovative approaches that help our patients receive high-quality, comprehensive heart care close to home,” said Bashir Rawas, director of cardiology service line at Mercy Health. “This advancement strengthens our ability to support prevention, diagnosis and treatment across the full spectrum of cardiovascular care.”
Mercy Health’s cardiovascular team is made up of 21 physicians and advanced practice clinicians who are using the latest technology and most up-to-date techniques to help patients prevent, manage, treat, and recover from heart diseases and conditions. For more information about heart health & the treatment options available, visit mercy.com.