LONDON (Kashmir English): AI-powered new generation of stethoscopes could transform the way doctors detect life-threatening heart conditions, researchers in the UK believe.
The AI-powered device can identify heart failure, heart valve disease, and abnormal heart rhythms within seconds.
The experts are calling the development a potential “game-changer”. The study was led by Imperial College London and Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust.
Unlike the traditional stethoscope invented in 1816, the updated version replaces the chest piece with a sensor about the size of a playing card.
Using a microphone, the device records subtle differences in heartbeat and blood flow that are imperceptible to the human ear.
The stethoscope simultaneously performs an electrocardiogram (ECG), sending the data to the cloud, where it is analysed by AI trained on tens of thousands of patient cases.
Stethoscope for the 21st century
A consultant cardiologist and clinical director at the British Heart Foundation, Dr Sonya Babu-Narayan, described the innovation as “an elegant example of how the humble stethoscope, invented more than 200 years ago, can be upgraded for the 21st century.”
She stressed that early detection is critical: “Too often, these conditions are only identified at an advanced stage when patients present in emergency settings. With earlier diagnosis, people can access treatment sooner and live well for longer.”
Following the successful trial, plans are there to introduce the AI stethoscopes to GP practices in south London, Sussex, and Wales.
