Revolutionary CT scanner transforms cardiac care at Ridgeview

Heart disease remains the leading cause of death in the U.S., often developing with few or no warning signs. Early detection is key — and advanced imaging plays a vital role.

Thanks to generous philanthropic support, Ridgeview now has one of the most advanced imaging systems in the nation. Recently approved for use by the Federal Drug Administration (FDA) with its breakthrough technology, the NAEOTOM Alpha^® scanner is redefining cardiovascular imaging as the world’s first photon-counting computerized tomography (CT) system.

This system brings faster, clearer and high-resolution imaging capabilities and a more comfortable experience for patients at Ridgeview.

Unlike many conventional scanners, which can take longer and use higher doses of radiation, the NAEOTOM Alpha is designed to deliver high-quality images in less time — with significantly lower radiation exposure.

Investing in the safest, highest quality care at Ridgeview

“Investing in this revolutionary CT scanner affirms Ridgeview’s commitment to providing the safest, highest-quality care possible,” Ben Nielsen, Chief Operating Officer, Ridgeview, said. “This amazing new technology will have a direct influence on Ridgeview’s ability to treat and diagnose its patients more quickly and thoroughly, close to home."

For patients, this means quicker scan times with unprecedented levels of comfort and support. The NAEOTOM Alpha scanner also offers advanced features that improve how clearly and efficiently providers can see the heart and blood vessels, helping them to view previously undetectable details in the heart — including plaque in the walls of vessels that cannot be seen with conventional imaging testing.

“You can’t deliver the right treatments without knowing somebody’s risk,” Michael Miedema, MD, Cardiologist, Minneapolis Heart Institute^® at Ridgeview Heart Center, said. “Now we have the ability to take a really accurate picture of the heart with a newer cardiac CT system.”

In addition to heart imaging, this new CT scanner supports a wide range of patient care needs, including urology, oncology, pediatric patients and more. The ability to deliver quicker results helps providers stage disease and guide treatment decisions better than ever before.

The NAEOTOM Alpha scanner is housed at Ridgeview Waconia Campus and was made possible through fundraising efforts by Ridgeview Foundation’s Cause for the Community campaign.