08/06/2024
A new AI model by Caristo Diagnostics, an Oxford University spinout, is being hailed as revolutionary for identifying people at risk of heart attacks within the next decade. The AI detects heart inflammation invisible on CT scans. Supported by NHS England, a pilot project is running in hospitals in Oxford, Milton Keynes, Leicester, Liverpool, and Wolverhampton, with a decision on NHS adoption expected soon.
The AI, called CaRi-Heart, analyzes routine CT scans to detect coronary inflammation and plaque, verified by trained operators. Increased inflammation links to higher cardiovascular disease and heart attack risk. The Orfan study found those with coronary inflammation had a significantly higher risk of fatal cardiac events within 10 years, and AI use led to preventive treatments for 45% of at-risk patients.
The National Institute for Health and Care Excellence is assessing the AI for NHS rollout, with reviews also underway in the US and approvals in Europe and Australia.