AI stethoscope doubles GP detection of major cardiac issues

A medical breakthrough could soon change how local GP clinics detect heart disease. Researchers testing an AI-powered stethoscope have reported detection rates for three major cardiac issues more than doubled in real-world practice.

The compact device, designed by Imperial College London and manufactured by Eko Health, analyzes heart sounds and electrical signals using sophisticated algorithms.

Results are available in just 15 seconds, meaning millions could benefit from quicker, more accurate cardiac screening.

Smart Tech Meets Old Medicine

Unlike the traditional stethoscope, which has remained mostly unchanged for two centuries, the AI stethoscope relies on a digital sensor, an ECG function, and a cloud-based diagnostic system.

The device captures both heart rhythms and blood flow audio, allowing AI to screen for heart failure, atrial fibrillation, and valve disease in a single exam.

Doctors in over 200 London GP clinics used the new tool with more than 12,000 patients. Data presented at the European Society of Cardiology Congress revealed that patients were 2.33 times more likely to be diagnosed with heart failure and almost twice as likely to be identified with heart valve disease compared to standard practice. For atrial fibrillation, detection rates jumped an impressive 3.5-fold.

Did you know?
AI stethoscopes can identify atrial fibrillation up to 3.5 times more often than standard devices in routine GP assessments.

Early Diagnosis: A Lifesaver

The timing of this innovation is crucial. More than one million people in the UK live with heart failure, yet most only receive a diagnosis during emergency hospital visits.

By picking up subtle signs earlier, the AI stethoscope could help avoid critical late-stage admissions and enable swift treatment plans, ultimately saving lives.

Eko Health’s device boasts an 85% sensitivity and 70% specificity for detecting low ejection fraction, a key marker of heart failure.

Its FDA clearance and adoption in select GP surgeries has laid the groundwork for wider global rollout.

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Real-World Success and Challenges

The large-scale TRICORDER trial confirmed the diagnostic improvements but also highlighted practical hurdles. While initial use was widespread, 70% of GP practices stopped or rarely used the smart stethoscope after one year.

Integrating new tech into established clinical routines remains a challenge despite its benefits. Researchers noted some false positives; around two-thirds flagged for heart failure by AI did not have the condition on follow-up scans.

However, experts stress this tool can catch silent cardiac issues missed by conventional assessments, paving the way for future upgrades in device accuracy.

Forward-Looking Medicine

Backed by strong clinical evidence, the AI stethoscope is poised to expand into clinics in Wales, South London, and Sussex soon. If uptake continues to rise, everyday heart care could be transformed by smart diagnostics delivering faster, better outcomes for patients wherever they visit their GP.