4D Flow MRI Blood Flow Analysis Software Enhances Cardiovascular Diagnostic Accuracy

By MedImaging International staff writers
Posted on 20 Jun 2023

Image: The iTFlow software solution has received US FDA approval (Photo courtesy of Cardio Flow Design)

Technological advancements, coupled with the progression of CT/MRI, have enabled the acquisition of more detailed information regarding blood flow within the body. Cardiac magnetic imaging research has revealed the evolving potential of advanced intracardiac flow analysis in heart disease, surpassing conventional measurements. Now, an innovative software solution that analyzes blood flow using 4D Flow MRI data has the potential to improve diagnostic accuracy for patients suffering from cardiovascular diseases and heart conditions.

The iTFlow software solution developed by Cardio Flow Design Inc. (Tokyo, Japan) aids in the analysis and evaluation of blood flow, primarily serving the cardiovascular surgery and radiology sectors. By utilizing MRI data, users can carry out their independent analysis and visualization of blood flow. The software facilitates visualization of fluid dynamics in the heart and blood vessels in 2D and 3D, even without the use of contrast agents.

Additionally, it allows for various quantitative evaluations, including the calculation of flow rate, velocity, pathline, streamline, and other parameters. By integrating sophisticated algorithms and image analysis techniques, iTFlow assists physicians and healthcare professionals in diagnosis and treatment planning. The US Food and Drug Administration has approved its use in blood flow analysis, equipping healthcare professionals with a more precise and effective tool for patient care decisions.

“We developed this software with the aim of enabling all physicians, regardless of their level of experience, to propose the most appropriate treatment for patients even with complicated anatomy and cardiac function by quantitatively evaluating blood flow,” said Dr. Itatani, MD, Ph.D., a cardiovascular surgeon specializing in adult congenital heart disease and the inventor of iTFlow.

“We are delighted this software has obtained FDA approval. We have been pursuing the concept of blood flow analysis with 4D flow MRI for many years, and iTFlow encapsulates the essence of this concept,” added company CEO, Teruyasu Nishino, MD. “With this approval, we believe that healthcare professionals will be able to provide more accurate diagnoses and treatment plans for cardiovascular diseases, especially for children with congenital heart disease, and will save many lives. This innovation will change the way of diagnosis and serve as a catalyst to spread the adoption of blood flow analysis worldwide.”

Related Links:
Cardio Flow Design Inc.