AI trial begins at Peterborough city hospital
Clinicians are using revolutionary AI software to assist in breast cancer diagnostics
A ground-breaking trial 's begun at Peterborough City Hospital, and pathologists are now using Artificial Intelligence (AI) software to aid in the digital pathology reporting of breast biopsies.
The AI-powered diagnostic tool, developed by Ibex Medical Analytics, is undergoing a 12-month trial funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research. The tool aims to enhance the accuracy of reporting and improve efficiency by reducing the time required to review and report each biopsy, determining the presence of breast cancer.
The AI has been developed using a specially trained algorithm, incorporating input and expertise from over 100 pathologists worldwide. The software conducts a series of checks for breast cancer, analysing tissue samples to assist pathologists in detecting the disease more swiftly and easily. Extensive testing has demonstrated the high accuracy of the tool, which reduces the need for patients to undergo repeat biopsies and allows pathologists more time for other tasks.
Dr David Bailey, Consultant Pathologist for North West Anglia NHS Foundation Trust, commented, “This is a really exciting breakthrough in diagnostics and something we are incredibly proud to be a part of. I have seen some huge advancements in technology during my career but none more so than the strides being made in digital pathology now.”
The Trust has already implemented a similar AI tool in prostate cases, which has significantly improved cancer care over the past 18 months. The current 12-month trial will now focus on breast cancer patients. Initially, the AI tool will be used as a safety net after a consultant has reported on biopsy slides for the first three months. Following this period, the AI will pre-read biopsy slides, immediately highlighting areas of concern, and identifying cancer much more rapidly, achieving a diagnosis in a shorter timeframe.
“The future of pathology is changing, and it not only benefits the patient but also the clinicians,” said Dr Bailey. “The AI doesn’t fatigue like humans do and it is a fantastic aid to us as pathologists. It will make a huge difference to the way we diagnose patients in the future and improve both patient experience and care.”