Manatee Memorial Hospital Pioneers Heart Procedure Using Artificial Intelligence to Diagnose Coronary Heart Disease

Bradenton, FL – (January 21, 2025) – In a groundbreaking move for cardiac care, Dr. James Nguyen, MD, and the dedicated cardiac team at Manatee Memorial Hospital (MMH) have successfully completed a revolutionary procedure that leverages artificial intelligence (AI) and advanced computational science to improve the diagnosis and management of coronary artery disease (CAD). This pioneering procedure, which took place on January 12, is a testament to MMH’s commitment to providing the latest technology in cardiac care right here in the local community.

The procedure utilized the Medtronic CathWorks FFRangio™ System, a non-invasive diagnostic tool that creates a 3D, color-coded model of the coronary arteries. By converting traditional angiograms into detailed, dynamic visualizations, the system helps identify blockages and assess their severity with greater precision. CAD, which occurs when blood vessels supplying the heart are damaged or obstructed, affects over 16 million Americans* and can lead to life-threatening conditions such as heart attacks.

“This new technology marks a significant advancement in how we visualize and treat coronary artery disease,” said Dr. Nguyen. “By combining artificial intelligence with computational science, we can more accurately assess the severity of blockages, leading to better treatment decisions and improved outcomes for our patients.”

CAD is primarily caused by factors such as smoking, high cholesterol, hypertension and diabetes. Its symptoms include chest pain, shortness of breath, and abnormal heart rhythms, all of which can result in a heart attack if untreated.

The Manatee Heart and Vascular Center and the Valve Institute at MMH provide comprehensive, personalized care for heart disease, encompassing everything from assessment and diagnosis to intervention and recovery. With faster diagnosis and treatment, patients have a greater chance of survival and a quicker recovery.

For more information about the Manatee Heart and Vascular Center or to schedule a tour, please call 941-745-6874.

About Manatee Health

Proudly serving the residents of Manatee, Hillsborough, and surrounding counties for more than 70 years, Manatee Health represents an entire network of healthcare services. These include freestanding emergency departments, outpatient imaging, rehabilitation and sports medicine, home health, surgical and specialty physician services, and all the inpatient services offered by Manatee Memorial Hospital including advanced stroke care and vascular disease, emergency medicine for all ages; cardiac; cardiovascular; surgical, including robotic; orthopedics; respiratory care; sleep services; oncology; wound care and women’s and children’s services including Manatee County’s only Level II Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. For information on hospital services, visit manateehealth.com.

• American Heart Association. Heart Disease and Stroke Statistics—2018 update.