Philips unveils AI-enhanced cardiovascular ultrasound platform
Philips has unveiled Transcend Plus, the next generation of its EPIQ CVx and Affiniti CVx cardiovascular ultrasound systems, delivering significant advancements in artificial intelligence integration and image quality enhancement.
The platform introduces newly FDA-cleared 2D and 3D imaging improvements alongside an expanded suite of 26 FDA-cleared AI applications, positioning it as the most comprehensive AI-enabled cardiovascular ultrasound solution in the industry.
Enhanced imaging capabilities drive diagnostic precision
Transcend Plus delivers visibly improved sharpness, contrast, and detail in both 2D and 3D imaging modalities. The FDA-cleared enhancements support superior visualisation of cardiac anatomy and function, enabling diagnostic confidence in technically challenging cases. A key innovation is the new 2D Auto EF Advanced feature, which expands AI capabilities specifically for contrast imaging studies—critical for accurate cardiac function assessment.
The platform addresses growing challenges in cardiac care delivery, including increased patient volumes, rising clinical complexity, and persistent staffing shortages. By automating routine measurements and standardising assessments, Transcend Plus aims to reduce operator variability whilst maintaining diagnostic accuracy.
Industry-leading AI integration transforms workflow efficiency
Philips now offers 26 FDA-cleared cardiovascular ultrasound AI applications fully integrated into Transcend Plus, representing the most extensive AI portfolio available in cardiovascular ultrasound. Recent FDA 510(k) clearances include both 2D Auto EF and 2D Auto EF Advanced applications, designed to streamline clinical workflows across diverse care settings.
“Artificial intelligence is a tool, not a threat, and I always maintain that human plus AI is going to be better than human alone or AI alone,” said Dr Akhil Narang, Director of Echocardiography Laboratory and Associate Professor of Medicine at Northwestern University’s Feinberg School of Medicine. “The 3D Auto CFQ and 3D Auto TV AI applications are examples of this, taking manual, time-consuming processes and automating these measurements in a fast, easy and reproducible way.”
Left ventricular assessment capabilities enhanced
Left ventricular function assessment represents one of the most critical applications in cardiac imaging, central to diagnosing and managing numerous cardiac conditions. Transcend Plus delivers automated tools that minimise operator variability whilst ensuring reliable, standardised measurements—particularly vital in high-volume clinical environments.
The system provides robust support for both contrast and non-contrast imaging protocols. The 2D Auto EF feature enables accurate assessments when contrast agents cannot be utilised, such as in patients with renal impairment. The advanced 2D Auto EF Advanced feature adds AI-powered quantification capabilities for both imaging approaches, broadening clinical applicability and enhancing measurement reliability in patients with suboptimal image quality or challenging acoustic windows.
Clinical impact and global reach
“Transcend Plus represents a bold leap forward in the evolution of echocardiography, reinforcing our commitment to continuous innovation,” said David Handler, Business Leader for Cardiology Ultrasound at Philips. “Building on the momentum of our original Transcend launch, Transcend Plus brings the full power of AI integration to the forefront, giving clinicians the confidence, speed, and precision they need to lead in cardiac care.”
Philips ultrasound systems globally perform an estimated 1.33 billion diagnostic and interventional procedures annually, supporting diagnosis and treatment for 654 million unique patients each year. The platform was demonstrated at the European Society of Cardiology 2025 Congress in Madrid and the American Society of Echocardiography annual meeting in Nashville.
- For more information, visit: https://www.usa.philips.com/healthcare/clp/npi/cvx-ultrasound-echocardiography
