NICE Recommends AI Tools to Enhance Bone Fracture Detection in X-Rays
Artificial intelligence (AI) has the potential to significantly reduce the number of broken bones missed when doctors analyze X-rays, according to the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence (NICE).
Four AI tools are set to be recommended for use in urgent care across England, while further evidence is gathered on the benefits of this technology.
It’s important to note that AI will not operate independently; each X-ray image will be reviewed by a trained healthcare professional.
NICE has reported that broken bones can be overlooked in 3-10% of cases, making it the most common diagnostic error in emergency departments.
The trained experts who perform and analyze thousands of X-ray images daily within the NHS are in short supply, facing a significant workload. Current vacancy rates stand at 12.5% for radiologists and 15% for radiographers, according to the long-term plan for the NHS in England.
NICE proposes that harnessing AI’s capabilities can effectively support clinicians in their diagnostic processes.
Mark Chapman, director of health technology at NICE, stated that the integration of AI technologies would facilitate the work of healthcare professionals. “These AI technologies are safe to use and could spot fractures which humans might miss, given the pressure and demands these professional groups work under,” he shared.
NICE emphasized that it is “unlikely” the technology will lead to an increase in incorrect diagnoses or unnecessary referrals to fracture clinics since a radiologist will always review the X-ray images. They claimed the process would be an improvement over clinicians analyzing images alone.
The potential applications for artificial intelligence in healthcare are vast. AI is already being utilized to detect early signs of breast cancer in scans, identify individuals most at risk of heart attacks, and even predict occurrences of future pandemics.
A consultation regarding the draft NICE guidance on the application of AI will conclude on November 5.
Expert Discussion
To delve deeper into the implications of AI in healthcare diagnostics, we invited a panel of experts:
- Dr. Sarah Thompson, Radiologist
- Prof. James Lee, AI Health Technology Expert
- Dr. Emily Chen, Healthcare Policy Analyst
Discussion Highlights:
Moderator: How do you see AI influencing the future of diagnostics in healthcare?
Dr. Thompson: “AI can streamline processes and reduce human error, but it should supplement and not replace the expertise of radiologists.”
Prof. Lee: “Absolutely. The integration of AI can alleviate some of the burdens on healthcare professionals, addressing the current shortage issue.”
Dr. Chen: “However, we must also consider the ethical implications and ensure that AI is used responsibly throughout the healthcare system.”
Moderator: What are the next steps for AI implementation in the NHS?
Dr. Thompson: “Continuous monitoring and training for healthcare professionals will be key to successful integration.”
Prof. Lee: “And we should establish clear guidelines for the use of AI, ensuring patient safety remains a priority.”