The Stroke Prevention Task & Finish group was established in September 2019 to consider the requirements of an artificial intelligence (AI) reporting solution for stroke. We are pleased to announce that we have introduced this technology at our sites.
AI technology can be used to read and report on brain imaging scans for acute ischaemic stroke patients and will:
• Improve speed of diagnosis
• Increase the number of patients receiving intra-arterial thrombectomy
• Improve patient experience and outcomes, including reduction in disability following a stroke
This technology is used to assess patients who would benefit from clot bursting drugs (IV thrombolysis) or fishing the clot out to restore the flow in the blood vessel (Mechanical Thrombectomy). Kimberley Macmillan and Gill Cook are the clinical leads for stroke at University Hospitals of Morecambe Bay NHS FT.
Kimberley Macmillan said “The use of Artificial Intelligence is a step forward in helping treat people with acute stroke. We are able to identify patients who would benefit from treatments such as thrombectomy and thrombolysis and help reduce their risk of disability.”
Gill Cook added “This technology is being rolled out across Lancashire and South Cumbria and will benefit people in our area. Speed is vital in Stroke and now AI will provide another form of imaging to help diagnose and treat patients with stroke effectively.”
Jean Sherrington, Patient Rep, said "It can often be daunting as a patient receiving treatments in new ways, especially when it's so futuristic. The use of this technology will greatly improve the speed of diagnosis and treatment, which is vital to treating Stroke."