News and Events > A Health Sciences Center Invention Is Philips' Newest Product Launch

A Health Sciences Center Invention Is Philips' Newest Product Launch

October 14, 2004

DENVER-Royal Philips Electronics, licensee of a CU software platform for 3-D reconstruction of coronary artery structures, recently released new product information about Allura 3D-CA. According to Philips, this interventional tool provides unparalleled detail and accurate representation of the condition of the heart's coronary vessels. The Allura 3D-CA was created in collaboration with Dr. James Chen and Dr. John Carroll of the Health Sciences Center. Dr. Chen is a computer scientist; Dr. Carroll is a cardiologist. The system produces 3D images of coronary vessels from multiple viewpoints and angles, enabling clinicians to make faster, more confident diagnoses and decisions.

The Chen and Carroll invention represents more than ten years of research in 3D imaging. Their collaboration with Philips began in 2000, and today the University of Colorado Hospital Cardiac Catheterization lab has one of the world's first fully integrated 3D coronary imaging labs, where the newest imaging techniques can be seamlessly integrated into patient care.

Philips' new product announcement includes this statement by John Carroll, M.D., Chief of Cardiology and Director of Cardiac& Vascular Center at HSC: "Traditionally, cardiologists have relied on their own expertise in visualizing the coronary artery tree in order to determine severity of lesions and vessel lengths, which are unique to each patient. Philips Allura 3D-CA is a breakthrough interventional tool that will now deliver 3D images of the heart's complex anatomy, which are unavailable with 2D imaging. By viewing the heart's arteries in 3D, cardiologists can better understand its true structure, which benefits patients not only in treatment, but also shortens exam times, reduces the need for additional invasive procedures and lowers potential exposure to radiation and contrast agents."