Latest News: Local Doctor receives over £80,000 for pioneering research Project

Dr Thomas Johnson, 37, a consultant cardiologist at the Bristol Heart Institute has received a Novel and Emerging Technologies Grant of £89,427 from national heart charity, Heart Research UK to carry out research into identifying people who are at a high risk of a heart attack.

Coronary artery disease is caused by the build-up of fatty plaques in the coronary arteries. Heart attacks are usually caused by the rupture of these fatty plaques, causing a blood clot that blocks the coronary artery. Heart attacks are still the most common cause of death in people under the age of 75 in the UK. An X-ray test called coronary angiography is the best way of diagnosing coronary artery disease but is a poor way to predict the risk of future heart attacks.

Dr Johnson’s study will further investigate the use of OCT, Optical Coherence Tomography a novel emerging technology which allows cardiologists to ‘see’ in microscopic detail, the plaques in the coronary arteries. Using human hearts donated for research the project will help to expand our understanding of this technology and provide much needed information about the composition of the fatty plaques causing the blockage in the artery.

Dr Johnson, says: “I am delighted to have been awarded funding for my research project. By carrying out further investigation into the use of OCT we will be able to identify those who may be at risk of a heart attack efficiently and make sure patients have the correct care and support they need.”

Barbara Harpham, National Director at Heart Research UK, says: “Dr Johnson’s project is a prime example of cutting-edge research funded by Heart Research UK.  Our NET (Novel and Emerging Technologies) grants focus on the development of new and innovative technologies to diagnose, treat and prevent heart disease and related conditions.  We would like to congratulate Dr Johnson on being awarded a NET grant and wish him all the best with his study.”