Published: June 29, 2026
People living with heart arrhythmias in Kentucky and Southern Indiana now have access to next-generation, artificial intelligence (AI)-powered technology that could make treatment of dangerous heart rhythm disorders faster, safer and more precise.
Norton Heart & Vascular Institute is one of only 12 health systems in the United States selected to evaluate and help launch a new technology that uses AI-powered imaging to enhance cardiac ablation procedures.
Cartosound Sonata Module creates highly detailed, three-dimensional anatomical maps of the heart in real time, allowing electrophysiologists to visualize cardiac structures with greater speed and precision during procedures to treat abnormal heart rhythms, known as arrhythmias.
Norton Heart & Vascular Institute was selected to participate in the technology’s external evaluation prior to its commercial launch.
Today, Norton Hospital and Norton Audubon Hospital are the only hospitals in Kentucky offering this technology.
“At Norton Heart & Vascular Institute, we’re committed to bringing the most advanced treatment options to our patients,” said Kevin M. Thomas, M.D., electrophysiologist, Norton Heart & Vascular Institute. “The platform allows us to create high-resolution maps of the heart chambers more quickly and efficiently while using fewer catheters inside the heart. This enhances our ability to perform complex cardiac ablation procedures and streamlines our workflow, which can lead to shorter procedure times, improved safety and potentially better long-term outcomes.”
Cardiac ablation is a minimally invasive procedure used to treat arrhythmias such as atrial fibrillation, atrial flutter and other abnormal heart rhythms. During the procedure, physicians identify and treat areas of heart tissue responsible for irregular electrical signals.
Traditionally, creating detailed maps of the heart can require significant procedural time and multiple imaging tools. The new platform integrates AI with ultrasound imaging to automatically generate highly detailed 3D cardiac anatomy, providing physicians with enhanced visualization and procedural guidance.
Five million Americans are estimated to be living with atrial fibrillation today, and more than 12 million people are projected to have it by 2030, according to the American Heart Association.
For patients, the benefits may include:
“By improving the speed and efficiency with which we’re able to perform these procedures while providing a clearer view of cardiac anatomy, we’re continuing to elevate the level of care available to patients throughout Kentucky and Southern Indiana who need cardiac ablation,” Dr. Thomas said. “The addition of this new technology further demonstrates Norton Heart & Vascular Institute’s commitment to innovation and investment in technologies that advance patient care.”