In order to demonstrate the significant potential impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on stroke care, healthtech company Qure.ai in collaboration with Baptist Christian Hospital (BCH) in Assam conducted a study focusing on the role of AI in improving stroke diagnosis and treatment times, especially in remote or resource-challenged settings.
The study evaluated the effectiveness of the company’s AI-powered stroke detection solution, qER.
The qER solution analyses head CT scans within minutes, highlighting critical findings and enabling physicians to quickly identify stroke patients and initiate treatment faster, the company mentioned.
Utilising the Qure.ai‘s solution, the study noted that the proportion of patients receiving treatment within the first 30 minutes increased sixfold.
The researchers also found that it reduced treatment time by 27 per cent.
“This significant reduction in treatment time has the potential to save lives by speeding up interventions for stroke patients,” they said.
The AI achieved 97 per cent accuracy in ruling out bleeds in suspected stroke cases.
“Integrating Qure.ai’s AI-powered stroke detection solution has transformed our approach to stroke care. The ability to quickly and accurately diagnose strokes has allowed us to provide timely interventions, drastically improving patient outcomes in our hospital,” said Dr. Jacob Johnson, Medical Director at BCH.
Stroke is the second leading cause of death globally and a major cause of disability, emphasising the need for timely intervention. In India, it ranks as the third leading cause of death and sixth in disability. The first 60 minutes post-stroke, known as the Golden Hour, are critical for intervention, as prompt medical treatment can significantly enhance recovery outcomes, the study said.