GE HealthCare Unveils New Cardiac CT System and Launches Coronary Radiotracer

GE HealthCare has made significant strides in cardiovascular imaging technology, introducing a new CT scanner and commercially launching a PET imaging agent for coronary artery disease. These developments, announced at the American College of Cardiology's annual meeting in Chicago, aim to enhance diagnostic capabilities and expand access to advanced cardiac imaging techniques.

Revolution Vibe: A New Era in Cardiac CT Imaging

GE HealthCare's latest CT system, the Revolution Vibe, represents a leap forward in cardiovascular imaging technology. The scanner's standout feature is its ability to perform "unlimited one-beat cardiac imaging," capturing low-dose, full-organ images at a speed that allows for clear assessment of moving heart structures, including valves and arteries.

Jean-Luc Procaccini, President and CEO of Molecular Imaging and Computed Tomography at GE HealthCare, emphasized the system's potential to broaden the adoption of cardiac imaging. "The system is designed to encourage the broader adoption of and access to cardiac imaging, combining advanced technology with AI-powered solutions to deliver fast, accurate diagnoses and a more comfortable patient experience," Procaccini stated.

The Revolution Vibe has already received CE Mark approval in Europe and is currently under review by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). This new technology aims to expand the use of Cardiac CT Angiography (CCTA), a diagnostic tool for coronary artery disease that can serve as a first-line option for patients presenting with chest pain.

Flyrcado: Advancing PET Imaging for Coronary Artery Disease

Alongside the Revolution Vibe, GE HealthCare announced the U.S. commercial launch of Flyrcado, a PET imaging agent designed for diagnosing coronary artery disease. The fluorine-18 radiotracer, which received FDA approval in the fall of 2024, offers improved diagnostic efficacy compared to traditional imaging methods such as single-photon emission computed tomography (SPECT).

Flyrcado's launch is bolstered by its recent acquisition of passthrough payment status from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS), effective April 1, 2025. This status includes a drug-specific billing code, allowing for separate reimbursement of the radiopharmaceutical and PET-CT scan in outpatient settings, potentially improving accessibility for patients.

Strategic Expansion in Radiopharmaceuticals

In a move to strengthen its position in the radiopharmaceutical market, GE HealthCare has completed the acquisition of Nihon Medi-Physics, a Japanese radiopharmaceutical manufacturer. This acquisition, initially announced in December 2024, sees GE HealthCare taking full ownership of the previously 50-50 joint venture with Sumitomo Chemical.

This strategic move aligns with GE HealthCare's focus on expanding its molecular imaging capabilities and complements the launch of Flyrcado, potentially enhancing the company's ability to develop and distribute advanced imaging agents.