Leveraging IT and AI to transform 3D imaging lab workflows at Banner Health
Advances in artificial intelligence and advanced visualization software are rapidly reshaping how 3D imaging labs operate. This has resulted in faster turnaround times, improved reproducibility and a more efficient use the radiologist's expertise.
Radiology Business spoke with Kimberly Hatch, technical director of the 3D lab at Banner Health, to learn more about how her team is leveraging these tools to scale workflow and meet growing demand.
Hatch emphasized that modern 3D labs are increasingly dependent on AI-driven automation, but still require human oversight.
“My job is to check the AI. Humans have to monitor it,” she explained. That “trust but verify” approach has become central as algorithms take on more of the heavy lifting in image post-processing.
Tasks that took hours now take minutes
One of the clearest examples of AI-enabled 3D efficiency gains is in structural heart imaging. Hatch recalled that when she began performing transcatheter aortic valve replacement (TAVR) planning studies a decade ago, a single case could take up to three hours to complete. Today, thanks to more advanced algorithms and automated quantification tools, the same exam can be completed in about 25 minutes.
Rather than manually performing dozens of measurements, technologists now review and validate AI-generated outputs.
“The algorithms are the same at their core, they’re just much more advanced now. That evolution has saved hours per case,” Hatch explained.
These efficiencies are not just about convenience; they also are critical for maintaining throughput amid ongoing staffing shortages. Hatch noted that her lab processes about 400 exams per week with a team of five full-time staff, a workload that might traditionally have required seven or eight personnel.
“When I started, I was by myself. Anything that could improve workflow, I adopted," she said.
Over time, the strategic use of automation and IT systems has allowed the lab to expand capacity without proportionally increasing staff. This has had downstream benefits for patient care as well. By offloading labor-intensive 3D post-processing from radiologists, the lab enables physicians to focus on image interpretation, reducing delays in delivering results.
3D labs as essential infrastructure for procedural imaging workups
Hatch described a broader shift in how 3D imaging is perceived within radiology and cardiology departments. What was once considered a nice but not necessary capability has now become essential, particularly in structural heart programs.
At Banner Health, cardiac imaging dominates the 3D lab workload, with coronary CT angiography (CCTA) accounting for about 55% of cases. Structural heart procedures, including TAVR and emerging interventions for the mitral, tricuspid, and pulmonary valves, make up a growing share of those cases and are expected to increase further as volumes continue to rise.
As these programs expand, the role of dedicated 3D labs and specialized technologists becomes more critical. Hatch estimates that about 95% of advanced post-processing at her institution is performed in the lab rather than by radiologists or cardiac imagers.
3D technology has standardized workflows and increased reproducibility
Another major advantage of IT-enabled workflows is the improved consistency. With standardized protocols and quality control processes, Hatch’s lab ensures reproducible measurements regardless of which technologist processes a case.
“The goal is that you cannot tell who processed the exam,” she said. “If it’s not reproducible, then the protocol needs to be fixed.”
This level of standardization is particularly important for structural heart planning, where small measurement variations can significantly impact procedural decisions.
Building a modern 3D lab
For organizations looking to develop or expand a 3D imaging lab, Hatch stressed the importance of strategic software selection and IT collaboration. No single platform currently meets all needs, particularly when combining CT and MR imaging.
“You’re probably going to need at least two software solutions. And you need to vet them carefully with your IT team to get the best value and integration.”
As MRI becomes more integrated into structural heart workflows, additional specialized tools may be required. While vendors are working toward more unified platforms, Hatch noted that most labs today must manage multiple systems.
Despite rapid progress, Hatch views current capabilities as just the foundation of what has yet to come. Imaging technology, she said, continues to evolve rapidly, requiring ongoing adaptation by clinical teams.
“Technology grows and grows,” she said. “Our job is to keep up with it and use it in the most efficient and effective way.”
Dave Fornell has covered healthcare for more than 17 years, with a focus in cardiology and radiology. Fornell is a 5-time winner of a Jesse H. Neal Award, the most prestigious editorial honors in the field of specialized journalism. The wins included best technical content, best use of social media and best COVID-19 coverage. Fornell was also a three-time Neal finalist for best range of work by a single author. He produces more than 100 editorial videos each year, most of them interviews with key opinion leaders in medicine. He also writes technical articles, covers key trends, conducts video hospital site visits, and is very involved with social media. E-mail: [email protected]