Doctors Develop AI Stethoscope That Can Identify Major Heart Conditions in 15 Seconds

Doctors Develop AI Stethoscope That Can Identify Major Heart Conditions in 15 Seconds
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Doctors in the UK have unveiled an artificial intelligence–powered stethoscope capable of diagnosing three major heart conditions in just 15 seconds, The Guardian reported based on findings presented at the European Society of Cardiology congress in Madrid.

The device, created by researchers at Imperial College London and Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust in collaboration with California-based firm Eko Health, can detect heart failure, heart valve disease and atrial fibrillation. Unlike a traditional stethoscope, the tool combines sound analysis with an electrocardiogram (ECG), and uses AI to identify subtle abnormalities undetectable to the human ear.

A study of 12,000 patients across 200 GP practices showed that those assessed with the AI stethoscope were twice as likely to be diagnosed with heart failure and almost twice as likely to be diagnosed with valve disease. They were three times more likely to be identified with atrial fibrillation, a dangerous heart rhythm disorder linked to strokes.

While the technology carries a higher risk of false positives, researchers stressed it should be used for patients with suspected symptoms rather than routine screening.

Experts said the tool could transform early detection. “It is incredible that a smart stethoscope can be used for a 15-second examination, and then AI can deliver results on heart failure, atrial fibrillation or valve disease,” said Dr Patrik Bächtiger of Imperial College.

The research was part-funded by the British Heart Foundation and the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR), which hailed the device as a potential “gamechanger” for frontline healthcare.