AI continues to be a rapidly growing area in medical innovations, presenting many effective and convenient solutions. From FDA-approved diagnostic tools to smartphone enabled mobile systems, AI’s vast reach in healthcare is constantly being expanded with new research and technologies. Below, DocWire News has compiled some of the recent innovations and news regarding AI in healthcare.
New AI Accurately Predicts Hip Fractures
In a new study, researchers successfully leveraged artificial intelligence (AI) to aid in the diagnosis of hip fracture. Hip fractures are one of the most serious injuries sustained by older adults. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, more than 300,000 adults aged 65 years and older are hospitalized for hip fracture each year. Unfortunately, diagnosis is frequently missed on pelvic radiographs, and research has found that delayed treatment could lead to increased risk for complications and even mortality.
Smartphone AI Effectively Detects Diabetic Retinopathy
Researchers have recently shown that together, AI (artificial intelligence) software and a smartphone camera can offer a convenient screening system for diabetic retinopathy (DR). Coming from the University of Michigan Kellogg Eye Center, this work used high definition retinal images from a smartphone-mounted device to determine whether a patient needs to be referred to an ophthalmologist.
Using AI to Predict Kidney Function
Ultrasound imaging of the kidney is considered optimal in clinical practice due to its safety, convenience, and affordability. However, according to Chin-Chi Kuo, MD, PhD, and colleagues in Taiwan, the high subjective variability in image acquisition and interpretation makes incorporating experience-based prediction into standardized practice difficult. The researchers developed an artificial intelligence (AI) noninvasive tool to predict kidney function using estimated glomerular filtration rates (eGFR) based on serum creatinine concentrations.
AI Brain Implant Turns Thoughts into Speech
Neuroscientists from UC San Francisco have recently created an artificial intelligence (AI) brain implant that can use brain activity to generate speech using a virtual vocal tract. This study involved participants with intact speech, but the implant could potentially restore vocal function in patients who have lost their ability to speak due to neurological damage. These findings were described in Nature on April 24.
First AI Medical Monitoring Wearable Approved by FDA for Home Use
Current Health’s artificial intelligence (AI) wearable device that measures multiple vital signs has recently received FDA-clearance for patients to use at home. In February, the Edinburgh, Scotland-based company received clearance for the AI-enabled device in monitoring patients while in the hospital, but this recent approval means it can now be used between doctor visits at home too.
AI System Analyzes Embryo Quality to Optimize In Vitro Fertilization
An AI system recently created by Weill Cornell Medicine researchers is capable of determining how likely a 5-day-old in vitro fertilized embryo is to result in successful pregnancy. This is achieved through analysis of time lapse images of early-stage embryos, and has the potential to greatly increase the number of successful in vitro fertilization pregnancies.
