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Medical Care

AI Transforms Imaging as FDA Approvals Keep Rising at RSNA

2024-12-02

If it's the week following Thanksgiving, the Radiological Society of North America's annual meeting takes place at McCormick Place in Chicago. From December 1st to 5th, tens of thousands of imaging, IT, and informatics professionals from over 120 countries gather to get a close look at new hardware and software and learn about clinical innovations. Just like in healthcare everywhere else, artificial intelligence is revolutionizing the imaging profession, as evidenced by a new KLAS study.

KLAS Study Highlights in Imaging AI

The Imaging AI 2024 research report shows that the number of FDA-approved AI tools for imaging has surged to over 300 in just a few years, with no sign of the approvals slowing down. In 2018, only 17% of interviewed organizations were piloting or using an AI solution, but now over 50% of surveyed organizations are using AI algorithms for at least one imaging use case. This indicates the rapid pace of change in the imaging industry. 1: The regulatory landscape has played a significant role in this transformation. As it has changed, attitudes towards and adoption of new imaging AI platforms, operational and reporting automations, and other AI tools have also evolved. This has opened up new possibilities and challenges for imaging professionals. 2: To understand the various ways AI is changing the imaging and radiology landscape, KLAS researchers surveyed over 200 organizations. About 25% of them were imaging groups, and the rest were US health systems. This data provides valuable insights into the current state of AI in imaging.

Agfa's Integration with CARPL.ai

Agfa is showcasing its integration of CARPL.ai into the AGFA Healthcare Enterprise Imaging platform. This integration offers expanded flexibility and efficiency to radiologists. RUBEE for AI provides expanded access to CARPL's marketplace of 140 applications, creating a unified platform that helps providers manage the large-scale adoption of AI and harness its value across different clinical domains. 1: The combination of these technologies allows radiologists to work more efficiently and make more accurate diagnoses. It streamlines the imaging process and improves patient care. 2: By integrating CARPL.ai, Agfa is at the forefront of using AI to enhance imaging workflows and deliver better patient outcomes.

Aidoc's New CARE1 Foundation Model

Aidoc announced its new CARE1 foundation model for CT imaging, which stands for Clinical AI Reasoning Engine, Version 1. This is the first step in a multi-year investment in its CARE framework. Trained on millions of exams, the model helps advance precision and speed in clinical AI, minimizing diagnostic delays, optimizing workflows, and improving patient outcomes. 1: The development of this model is a significant milestone in the field of imaging AI. It shows how AI can be used to enhance the diagnostic process and provide more accurate results. 2: Aidoc's commitment to innovation in clinical AI is evident through the introduction of the CARE1 model, which has the potential to transform the way CT imaging is performed.

Fujifilm's New Imaging Systems

Fujifilm announced several new imaging systems at RSNA, including a 1.5T MRI system with AI-powered workflow enhancements, an open 0.4T MRI system, a next-generation ultrasound system with cognitive technology for deep tissue visualization, an all-in-one compact fluoroscopy C-arm, and two digital radiography suites. 1: These new systems incorporate advanced technologies that improve imaging quality and workflow efficiency. The AI-powered enhancements in the MRI system, for example, allow for faster and more accurate diagnoses. 2: Fujifilm's diverse range of new imaging systems demonstrates its commitment to innovation and providing imaging professionals with the tools they need to deliver the best patient care.

GE HealthCare's Pristina Via Mammography System

GE HealthCare is touting its new Pristina Via mammography system, designed to improve the screening experience for both patients and technologists. It offers imaging professionals a new suite of leading-edge tools that balance the demands of diagnostic accuracy and fast-paced workflows, facilitating more patient-centered breast care. 1: In a global shortage of technologists, this system could help streamline workflow efficiencies and ensure high-quality mammography screening. 2: GE HealthCare's focus on patient-centered care and workflow optimization is evident in the design of the Pristina Via mammography system.

Hyland's Cloud Imaging SaaS Tool and NilShare

Hyland is showcasing its Cloud Imaging SaaS tool, which combines clinical imaging content with multiple specialties for AI-enabled insights in clinical research. NilShare, designed as a cost-effective image sharing approach, securely transfers imaging data without a VPN, eliminating the need for costly CD burning and ingesting. 1: These tools offer significant advantages in terms of data management and research capabilities. The Cloud Imaging SaaS tool enables imaging professionals to access and analyze data more efficiently. 2: NilShare provides a secure and cost-effective way to share imaging data, improving collaboration and research opportunities.

Konica Minolta and Fovia's Collaboration

Konica Minolta and Fovia are teaming up to offer advanced visualization technology in Konica Minolta's cloud-based Exa PACS. This partnership offers customers leading 3D visualization and segmentation functionality that is secure, fast, flexible, and scalable. Offered via AWS cloud, the tools provide flexibility for clinicians while offering significant advantages in cost management for healthcare organizations. 1: The collaboration between Konica Minolta and Fovia brings together two leading technologies to provide enhanced imaging capabilities. 2: By leveraging AWS cloud, the tools offer a scalable and cost-effective solution for healthcare organizations.

Lunit's Collaboration with AstraZeneca

Lunit, which develops technologies for cancer diagnostics and therapeutics, announced a new collaboration with AstraZeneca to develop an AI-enabled digital pathology tool - Lunit SCOPE Genotype Predictor. This tool is capable of analyzing H&E slide images to predict the likelihood of tumor harboring NSCLC driver mutations, such as Epidermal Growth Factor Receptor mutations. 1: The collaboration between Lunit and AstraZeneca holds great promise for advancing cancer diagnostics and therapeutics. 2: AI-enabled digital pathology tools like Lunit SCOPE have the potential to revolutionize the way cancer is diagnosed and treated.This is just a small sampling of the hundreds of announcements at RSNA this week. For a longer list, see here.

In 2020, the United States bore a significant economic burden of $51.9 billion due to Parkinson's disease (PD), a progressive neurological disorder. By 2040, the projected number of people with PD worldwide is anticipated to reach 17.5 million. Recognizing the profound impact and challenges faced by those living with this condition, Memorial Healthcare System has taken a proactive stance by developing comprehensive rehabilitation programs aimed at enhancing mobility, communication, and overall well-being.

Empowering Lives with Parkinson's Rehabilitation at Memorial

LSVT LOUD: Transforming Speech for PD Patients

Patients with Parkinson's often encounter difficulties such as reduced vocal loudness, hoarseness, monotone voices, and imprecise articulation. These issues can lead to social isolation and a decline in quality of life. The LSVT LOUD program focuses on "think loud" techniques, encouraging participants to project their voices and engage in exercises that emphasize breath support, pitch variation, and articulation. Through intensive training over a period of four weeks, with 16 sessions each lasting an hour, patients learn to increase vocal intensity and intelligibility. This not only helps them regain confidence in their speech but also enables them to communicate more effectively with others.For instance, one patient, Mr. Johnson, who had been struggling with speech difficulties due to Parkinson's, participated in the LSVT LOUD program. After completing the sessions, he noticed a significant improvement in his vocal loudness and clarity. He was able to engage in conversations more freely and felt a renewed sense of self-confidence.

LSVT BIG: Revolutionizing Physical Function for PD

LSVT BIG is a tailored physical and occupational therapy program that focuses on improving mobility, motor function, and independence in daily activities. Based on the principles of neuroplasticity, this program emphasizes large, exaggerated amplitude-based movements, high intensity, and repetitive task-specific activities. Through these exercises, patients enhance strength, balance, coordination, gait, endurance, and agility.For example, Mrs. Thompson, who had been experiencing difficulties with mobility and motor function, enrolled in the LSVT BIG program. After a few weeks, she noticed a remarkable improvement in her ability to perform daily activities such as walking, reaching, and getting in and out of bed. The program not only helped her regain physical function but also gave her a newfound sense of independence.

Overall Exercise Regimen for PD

In addition to the specialized LSVT programs, Memorial Healthcare System promotes a comprehensive exercise regimen tailored to the specific needs of PD patients. Regular physical activity is crucial for maintaining strength, flexibility, and endurance. The rehabilitation team incorporates various forms of exercise, including mobility and balance exercises, to create a well-rounded program that supports overall health.For instance, Mr. Davis, who had been following the exercise regimen at Memorial Healthcare System, noticed a significant improvement in his overall physical condition. He had more energy, better balance, and was able to participate in more activities with his family.

Post-Rehab Support: Combined BIG for LIFE and LOUD for LIFE

Donors to Memorial Foundation have funded a free weekly LSVT group exercise class titled "Combined BIG for LIFE and LOUD for LIFE" for PD patients who have completed the LSVT LOUD and/or LSVT BIG programs. This class continues to support, motivate, and help patients maintain the gains achieved during rehabilitation.For example, Mrs. Wilson, who had completed the LSVT programs, attended the post-rehab group exercise class. She found the class to be a great way to stay connected with other patients and continue her progress. The support and motivation she received from the class helped her maintain her improved physical and speech functions.Memorial Healthcare System's Parkinson's rehabilitation programs, including LSVT LOUD, LSVT BIG, and the post-rehab free group exercise class, demonstrate a firm commitment to enhancing the lives of PD patients. By combining research-based therapies with compassionate care, the team at Memorial is dedicated to helping patients overcome limitations and regain control over their lives.Memorial Healthcare System includes Memorial Regional Hospital and Memorial Regional Hospital South in Hollywood, FL, which has been ranked a US News & World Report 2024-2025 Best Hospital for Rehabilitation. For more information, visit Memorial Healthcare System Parkinson Disease Therapy.

Over the past decade, the University of Oklahoma College of Medicine has witnessed a significant rise in the number of highly complex infections. This is attributed to several factors such as the declining health of the Sooner State population, the increase in complex surgeries performed by surgeons at the Oklahoma City-based medical school, and the substantial growth in immunosuppressive therapeutics for various diseases. The health system has also noticed a surge in antimicrobial resistance, limiting therapeutic options to parenteral/intravenous antibiotics. In response to this need, the outpatient parenteral antimicrobial therapy (OPAT) program was established, allowing patients to receive intravenous antibiotics at home. However, the day-to-day operations and ensuring patient adherence pose challenges. Remote therapeutic monitoring (RTM) technology offers promising solutions in this regard.

How Remote Therapeutic Monitoring Works

The patented RTM device latches onto the tube coming out of the IV antibiotic bag/pump/IV push and detects the flow of medication through the tube using proprietary technology. It records the start and end times of infusion and transmits the data through cellular communication to the company's AI system called IVE Mind. This system compares the observed infusions with the expected infusions based on the patient's treatment plan prescribed by their physician and generates an adherence rate and a weekly adherence report. Accountability/monitoring occurs at two levels - the company provides a team of infusion case managers to monitor daily adherence data and communicate with the patient if there is any lapse in adherence. The weekly adherence reports are also scanned into the patient's medical record.

The software is capable of interfacing with the Epic EHR, ensuring seamless integration into the healthcare system. Upon consenting, the patient is given a monitoring device and receives structured follow-up support. The first phone call occurs the day after discharge to confirm enrollment and address any immediate questions. Weekly check-in calls are scheduled to monitor progress and encourage adherence. Additional calls are made if any adherence issues arise.

Results of the Clinical Trial

The University of Oklahoma College of Medicine conducted an interim analysis with 64 patients enrolled on RTM and 95 contemporaneous controls. The two groups were similar in terms of baseline demographic characteristics, type of infection, insurance coverage, comorbid conditions, prior healthcare utilization, duration of outpatient therapy, and number of antibiotic doses per day. The results showed a sharp decrease in infection-related readmissions in the RTM group. At 30 days, there was a 74% reduction (4.7% versus 17.9%), at 60 days a 72% reduction (7.8% versus 28.4%), and at 90 days a 56% reduction (14.1% versus 31.6%). When a multivariable logistic regression model was built, controlling for various factors, the odds of infection-related readmissions were decreased in the RTM group by 76% at 30 days, 80% at 60 days, and 68% at 90 days.

The sustained response is significant, showing that RTM can break the vicious circle of never-ending infections and hospital readmissions. The median overall adherence rate in the RTM group was 94%, but the range was 18% to 100%, indicating that some patients need more support. More than half of the patients in the RTM group needed an extra intervention from the study team, and two-thirds of these interventions happened within the first week after hospital discharge. This early identification of issues allowed for better patient care and set them up for success.

Advice for Others

Remote therapeutic monitoring is a major technological breakthrough that has the potential to transform healthcare. It can change clinical outcomes in a tangible and beneficial way, as demonstrated by the University of Oklahoma College of Medicine's clinical trial. Healthcare organizations and physician practices should evaluate how RTM can be incorporated into their clinical practice and value-based care models. It has a wide range of applications in healthcare delivery, not only within OPAT but also in other home infusion models and pharmaceutical research.

The data generated by RTM has driven the University of Oklahoma College of Medicine to simplify some antibiotic regimens for some patients, increasing their adherence to 100%. Patients enrolled in the trial also reported feeling supported during their transition of care and throughout their antibiotic course, which contributed to their success.