• AI Successfully Predicts Deadly Heart Rhythms in Groundbreaking Study

    Health
    AI Successfully Predicts Deadly Heart Rhythms in Groundbreaking Study

    Published in the European Heart Journal, Digital Health, the study focused on ventricular arrhythmia (VA), a cardiac disorder with potentially fatal consequences


    Digital Desk: Artificial intelligence (AI) has showcased promising results in predicting deadly heart rhythms, according to a study conducted in Leicester, England. Led by Dr Joseph Barker and Professor Andre Ng, the research found that an AI tool accurately detected the condition in 80% of cases. 

     

    Published in the European Heart Journal, Digital Health, the study focused on ventricular arrhythmia (VA), a cardiac disorder with potentially fatal consequences.

     

    Dr Barker, along with Dr Xin Li, developed the AI tool VA-ResNet-50, which analysed Holter electrocardiograms (ECGs) from 270 adults. These ECGs were part of routine NHS care between 2014 and 2022, with 159 patients experiencing lethal ventricular arrhythmias. The AI tool examined normal heart rhythms to identify the risk of VA.

     

    Professor Ng highlighted the inadequacy of current clinical guidelines in accurately assessing VA risk, leading to preventable deaths. The study's findings suggest that AI analysis of ECGs during normal cardiac rhythm provides a new approach to determining patient risk and guiding treatment decisions, potentially saving lives.

     

    Acknowledging the importance of the research, Professor Ng praised the team's dedication to innovative analysis methods. Dr. Barker's contributions were recognized with awards, and further research is planned to advance this work.

     

    This breakthrough underscores the possibility of AI in healthcare, offering a glimpse into how technology can enhance risk assessment and improve patient outcomes in critical medical conditions.