Smart stethoscope uses artificial intelligence to screen for heart failure

In this study, researchers used a familiar stethoscope (to listen to heart sounds) with additional sensors to record an ECG (an electrocardiogram, a measure of the heart ' s electrical activity). They incorporated artificial intelligence (a computer programme) to analyse the ECG reading. The smart stethoscope identified people with heart failure correctly 9 out of 10 times. Few were missed by the stethoscope, and few were incorrectly identified as having heart failure when they did not. The researchers say the tool could be used to diagnose heart failure earlier, in primary care. It could help GPs prioritise referrals to secondary care for the people who need specialist treatment.
Source: Current Awareness Service for Health (CASH) - Category: Consumer Health News Source Type: news