By Oxford University Hospitals join England’s first AI-enabled stroke network.
A brand new technology, developed by Oxford-based Brainomix, uses AI analysis and enables high quality CT brain scans to be shared quickly and securely within and between hospitals.
Brainomix explains that by using AI to assist in the diagnosis of the scans of potential stroke victims, they are ‘reducing inter-reader variability in interpretation’ and enabling a more standardised stroke diagnosis. They say:
“The lack of timely, available expertise for brain CT scan interpretation can delay stroke patients accessing life-saving treatment. It facilitates fast and consistent treatment decisions by medical professionals, irrespective of their experience or expertise. Physicians can review results anywhere, in less than one minute. “
The AI based e-Stroke Suite technology, is now live at the John Radcliffe Hospital well as in neighbouring hospitals in High Wycombe, Milton Keynes, Northampton, Reading, Aylesbury, and Swindon, who have all come together in in the same network.
As well as diagnosing issues, the program enables for the rapid transfer of high-quality images between different departments and even hospital locations.
This feature enables relevant doctors to make a more coordinated and swift response in identifying whether a patient would benefit from a mechanical thrombectomy (MT).
A thrombectomy is a procedure that removes a blockage in a large blood vessel in the brain which can cause a severe stroke.
The NHS Long Term Plan identifies stroke as a clinical priority. It aims to increase use of thrombectomy so that hundreds more people are able to regain their independence following a stroke.
Dr Phil Mathieson, clinical lead for stroke at OUH, said:
“We are delighted to be the first stroke network in the country to use an AI decision aid in the management of our patients with stroke. This will assist us in the rapid identification of patients who may benefit from a mechanical thrombectomy. As all of our referring hospitals will be using the e-Stroke Suite, this removes the barrier of delays in accessing the necessary imaging to make these time-critical decisions.”
Within the Thames Valley, Oxford University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust (OUH) provides specialist stroke care for patients requiring MT. Currently 30-50 patients undergo MT each year in Oxford. Across the Thames Valley, it is estimated that 300-400 patients per year could benefit from MT.
Dr Phil Mathieson contines,
“It also future-proofs us as we look to use more advanced imaging techniques to expand the number of patients with a stroke that may be helped by the thrombectomy procedure. I am confident that this development will help improve outcomes for patients in the Thames Valley.”
Photo by Robina Weermeijer on Unsplash
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