New computer tools to analyse heart function after a heart attack

First steps towards computed modelling of myocardial infarction (an MI Physiome): A case-control study of novel biomechanical parameters in acute MI survivors with left ventricular dysfunction

Professor Colin Berry and colleagues at the University of Glasgow have been awarded a grant to develop new computer tools that will provide detailed information on heart pump function revealed by magnetic resonance imaging scans in hours rather than days. The new computer methods will be assessed using heart scans from heart attack survivors with severe heart injury and from healthy subjects. This project is the first step in a longer programme of work which aims to use computer technology to help doctors assess the risk and potential response to treatment of heart attack survivors. Heart attack survivors are at risk of poor health and premature death because of heart pump failure. Computer analysis of heart scans provides a lot of information about heart pump function. However, powerful computers are needed, with the analysis taking a long time, so the results are not easily used in the clinic. This project will enable the development of computer technology to help doctors improve patient management of heart attack survivors.