Heartflow launches new AI-powered staging tool for coronary plaque assessments

July 21, 2026 - 04:46

Heartflow has introduced a new artificial intelligence-powered tool designed to help physicians assess and stage coronary plaque in patients. The product, called Heartflow Plaque Staging, aims to provide a more detailed picture of plaque buildup in the arteries, moving beyond simple detection to offer a clearer sense of how advanced the disease might be.

The announcement came alongside the release of new data at the SCCT2026 conference. That data underscores the value of measuring total plaque volume rather than relying solely on traditional metrics. According to the company, using total plaque volume assessments can significantly improve how doctors diagnose and manage heart disease. The idea is that a fuller understanding of the plaque burden could lead to more personalized treatment plans and better long-term outcomes for patients.

Heartflow's new staging tool builds on the company's existing work in non-invasive cardiac imaging. By applying AI to standard CT scans, the system can quantify and categorize plaque in ways that were previously only possible through more invasive procedures. The company hopes this will make advanced plaque analysis more accessible in routine clinical practice. The new data presented at the conference is expected to fuel further discussion on how best to integrate these volumetric assessments into standard care protocols for coronary artery disease.