CHI Memorial Is First in Region to Offer Advanced Cardiac CT Technology

CHI Memorial is the first hospital in the region to offer the advanced technology of a cutting-edge cardiac CT scanner.  This new machine provides patients with a faster, more accurate, and less invasive way to diagnose and monitor heart conditions. 

“This new technology is a game-changer for our community,” said Kevin Hopkins, CHI Memorial market vice president of cardiovascular service line.  “It allows us to provide our patients with the most advanced cardiac care available, leading to earlier diagnosis, more effective treatment, and ultimately, better outcomes.  We are proud to be the first in our community to offer this life-saving technology.”

The new cardiac CT scanner uses advanced imaging techniques to create detailed 3D images of the heart and surrounding blood vessels, including one-beat, high definition, motion-free coronary images at any heart rate.  This allows physicians to detect early signs of heart disease, including coronary artery disease, heart valve problems, and heart muscle abnormalities.  The machine also offers a significantly reduced radiation dose, by up to 82 percent, compared to traditional CT scans, making it a safer option for patients.

“This best-in-class cardiovascular CT scanner brings cutting edge AI-enabled technology to our program.  This means we will be able to take care of more people in our community while continuing to lead the way on providing gold-standard cardiovascular care", shared Vimal Ramjee, MD, cardiologist at The Chattanooga Heart Institute.

The new cardiac CT scanner is now available at CHI Memorial Hospital Chattanooga. The scanner and new exam room are 100 percent donor funded with the lead gift for this technology provided by the Hamico Foundation.