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The stethoscope is the flagship instrument of the medical world. Since its invention in 1816, this fairly simple tool has been the workhorse of doctors all over the world — so much so, that the stethoscope is essentially the international identifier of medical personnel.
Now, more than two centuries after it was first invented, change is coming for the stethoscope — and in a good way. A new AI stethoscope has been developed, which can detect three types of heart conditions in a matter of seconds, according to the BBC.
The Size of a Playing Card
The new device differs in design from a low-tech stethoscope. Instead of a traditional chest piece, through which a medical professional can listen to a patient’s heartbeat, this stethoscope is the size of a playing card. This device can not only “hear” subtle differences in heartbeats and bloodflow, it also records an ECG (electrocardiogram), which is analyzed by AI.
As The Guardian reports, patients who were examined with the new stethoscope were three times as likely to be diagnosed with atrial fibrillation — which can lead to a stroke, and twice as likely to be diagnosed with heart failure.
The Importance of Early Detection
There is some risk that this could lead to patients mistakenly diagnosed with a condition they do not have. However, the stethoscope may also likely save lives, as early detection is key in treating heart disease. Most people do not get diagnosed with heart failure until they are very ill.
“This tool could be a real gamechanger for patients, bringing innovation directly into the hands of GPs. The AI stethoscope gives local clinicians the ability to spot problems earlier, diagnose patients in the community, and address some of the big killers in society,” Prof. Mike Lewis, the NIHR scientific director for innovation, tells the Guardian.
As of now, the new stethoscopes are set to be rolled out in GP practices in South London, Wales, and Sussex, according to the BBC.
While the classic stethoscope remains one of the most recognized symbols of modern medicine, this new technology could greatly improve healthcare for patients. The ability to detect heart disease early, before severe symptoms set in, could be life-saving for thousands of people. Welcome to the future, stethoscope.
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