Summary
Historically, CT brain scans are reviewed by a specialist in limited locations.
Now, through AI technology, high quality images can be seen within a few minutes of being processed, anywhere and at any time. This means advice can be given immediately.
Reducing the time between arriving in hospital and referral for treatment is crucial to recovery after stroke.
"
Using Brainomix’s AI-driven imaging support software I can now see the images within two minutes of them being processed. I can look at the scans, and then give specialist advice immediately advising treatment. The immediate benefit is that you reduce the hospital stay, but I think most of the cost saving is going to come from the long-term benefits by reducing the amount of social care required.
"
Dr Kiruba Nagaratnam, Clinical Lead for Stroke Medicine at Royal Berkshire NHS Foundation Trust
What the project involved
The e-Stroke technology developed by Brainomix, an Oxford-based company spun out of the University of Oxford, shares high quality brain scans quickly and securely.
This helps stroke clinicians make swift decisions relating to transfer and treatment, This includes access to mechanical thrombectomy (MT), a life-changing treatment, which can reduce disability and prevent or limit long-term care needs in patients with the most severe strokes caused by a blockage in a large blood vessel in the brain.
Increasing MT rates from 1% of eligible patients to 10% was identified as a priority in the NHS Long Term Plan (2019).
The e-Stroke technology incorporates artificial intelligence (AI) to support rapid image sharing across regional networks.
It makes more efficient use of specialist expertise, overcomes communication barriers and supports more coordination and consistency.
The Oxford AHSN helped set up and coordinate the Thrombectomy Innovation & Transformation (TITaN) stroke network.
It also worked with five Integrated Stroke Delivery Networks (ISDNs) and the NHS England South East regional team to roll out and evaluate e-Stroke.
Outcomes
High quality CT brain scans are being shared quickly and securely within and between hospitals using imaging software incorporating AI to support clinical decision-making.
This approach has sped up access to treatment, improved patient outcomes and prevented long-term disability.
It has enabled rapid transfer of high-quality images enabling swifter decisions around treatment options for stroke patients where quick action is crucial to preventing long-term disability.
These include identifying whether a patient would benefit from MT. In the Oxford AHSN region the number of MTs carried out increased from 37 in 2019 to 186 in 2022, achieving the Long Term Plan target for the first time.
The technology has also supported the adoption of new ways of working, particularly helping to overcome disruption caused by the pandemic.
This video further outlines the impact e-Stroke is having on stroke care.
Next steps
Across England, 24 stroke units are taking part in an independent evaluation of the impact of e-Stroke on patient and clinical outcomes, pathways, and delivery. This is being carried out by the Oxford AHSN as part of the Brainomix NHS AI in Health and Care Award to establish potential for wider spread and adoption.
