Stamford Health's Heart & Vascular Institute is set to become the first in Connecticut to implement a new artificial intelligence (AI) tool designed to enhance cardiovascular screening. Developed by Bunkerhill Health, the machine learning-based algorithm calculates total coronary artery calcium (CAC) or Agatston score, a measure used to detect coronary calcium—a key indicator of future risk for coronary artery disease.
The innovation allows automated CAC scoring to be integrated into non-gated chest CT scans, such as those performed during lung cancer screenings.
Previously, this screening required a specific request from a physician. Now, patients undergoing non-contrast chest CT scans will automatically receive a CAC score.
If an elevated CAC score is detected, the patient’s primary care provider or cardiologist will be notified, along with details such as the CAC score and the MESA risk percentile, enabling timely follow-up care.
The approach aims to improve the early detection of cardiovascular disease, offering personalised treatment plans that may include lifestyle changes, medications, or further cardiac evaluations. Stamford Health views the integration of this technology as a step forward in providing advanced and efficient care to its patients.
Bunkerhill Health also oversees the algorithm development process, manages regulatory approvals, and ensures clinical deployment.
The algorithm has received FDA clearance and is part of a portfolio of over 30 AI solutions being developed by Bunkerhill across the fields of cardiology, oncology, and endocrinology.
Currently, its AI tools are in use at more than 150 healthcare facilities across the United States, aiming to advance diagnostic precision and patient outcomes.
Source: https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/bunkerhill-health-ai-powers-cardiovascular-screening-at-stamford-health-302301870.html
