Imaging chain dramatically improves diagnosis of fractures with AI

A large 10-state outpatient medical imaging chain presented new study findings at the 2023 Radiological Society of North America (RSNA) conference that showed the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in X-ray examinations dramatically improved the turnaround time for a diagnosis.

The company said the research at its locations found that with AI assistance, fracture patients received results six times faster—and there was a reduction in the likelihood of a fracture being missed. 

The study, involving 1,442 patients across 14 SimonMed centers, demonstrated a 96.9% to 100% sensitivity range when utilizing AI. Additionally, AI resulted in an 82% faster generation of reports compared to readings conducted by a radiologist alone.

“Through the use of AI, we are not only able to help radiologists work more accurately and efficiently, we can use entirely new methods for diagnoses,” John Simon, MD, CEO of SimonMed said in the statement. The company added that, while they’re impressed with the results, radiologists are still confirming the automated AI reports and reviewing all images for accuracy before making an official diagnosis.

The specific AI technology used for the study was not revealed.

Chad Van Alstin Health Imaging Health Exec

Chad is an award-winning writer and editor with over 15 years of experience working in media. He has a decade-long professional background in healthcare, working as a writer and in public relations.

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