AI tools set to enhance fracture diagnosis in NHS hospitals
Artificial intelligence (AI) has the potential to revolutionise the diagnosis process for fractures and bone injuries by reducing the number of errors that occur during the analysis of X-rays. According to information provided by the UK's National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE), this technology is safe. It can significantly speed up diagnosing patients, while also alleviating the workload on healthcare staff.
NICE plans to recommend the introduction of four AI-based tools for use in urgent healthcare in England. At the same time, further studies will be conducted on the benefits of implementing artificial intelligence in this area of medicine.
AI supporting, not replacing doctors
It is worth noting that using AI does not mean that doctors will be completely replaced by algorithms. According to NICE's recommendations, each X-ray will also be verified by a qualified specialist. AI tools are intended to support doctors in their work, especially in situations where the pressure of a large number of patients and lack of time can lead to errors.
The problem of incorrect diagnoses
NICE also points out that incorrect fracture diagnosis is one of the most common diagnostic errors in emergency departments. It is estimated that between three and ten per cent of fractures remain undetected during the first diagnosis. This is a serious issue, particularly as the UK's National Health Service (NHS) struggles with a shortage of specialists – as many as 12.5 per cent of radiologist positions and 15 per cent of radiographer positions remain unfilled. This means that medical staff are overworked, which increases the risk of errors.
With AI support, it would be possible not only to detect fractures more accurately but also to speed up diagnosis, which could reduce the number of necessary follow-up visits due to the failure to detect a fracture in the initial phase of treatment.
Public consultations
Public consultations are currently underway on NICE's draft guidelines regarding the use of AI in fracture diagnosis. This process will conclude on 5 November, and the results of these consultations will be crucial for the future of this technology in the UK healthcare system.
Artificial intelligence in healthcare – a future that has already arrived
Artificial intelligence is already widely used in various fields of medicine. It is used for tasks such as early detection of breast cancer from scans, assessing heart attack risk in patients, and predicting future pandemics. The introduction of AI into fracture diagnosis in hospitals and clinics could be another step towards more efficient and precise healthcare.
