Computational modelling to improve the assessment and management of patients with coronary artery disease

Grantholders

  • Dr Paul Morris

    University of Sheffield

Project summary

Coronary artery disease, the world's leading cause of death, is caused by narrowing of the arteries of the heart. The best treatment is based on the extent of restricted blood flow caused by this narrowing. This is challenging to measure and is rarely done and this results in the wrong treatment being given in more than 25% of cases.

I have invented a computational method that accurately measures coronary blood flow during routine assessment. It requires no additional equipment, risk or expense and enables diagnosis of small-vessel heart disease, a common condition which is frequently missed. I will work with cardiologists, engineers and software companies to help this concept benefit as many people as possible. 

After mathematical development, laboratory and initial patient testing, I plan to make the method available across the world to help doctors make more accurate diagnoses and select the most appropriate treatment for their patients.