Researchers at Worcester-based UMass Chan Medical School tested a real-time AI tool to diagnose cholangiocarcinoma in the first in-human trial of its kind.
The Smart-AI trial, led by Neil Marya, MD, evaluated the tool during live procedures in 41 patients with biliary strictures, according to an April 9 study published in Clinical Gastroenterology and Hepatology.
The AI system analyzed video from a cholangioscope during procedures and demonstrated higher diagnostic accuracy than standard sampling methods, with 87.8% accuracy compared to 67.4%. It also outperformed visual assessments by experienced endoscopists, which had 63.1% accuracy.
Researchers trained the model using prior cholangioscopy videos from UMass Memorial Health and Rochester, Minn.-based Mayo Clinic to identify whether strictures were benign or malignant.
The findings suggest AI could support real-time cancer diagnosis in gastrointestinal care and reduce reliance on traditional biopsy methods.
At the Becker’s 32nd Annual Meeting: The Business and Operations of ASCs, taking place October 29-31 in Chicago, ASC leaders, surgeons and healthcare executives will explore strategies to drive growth, enhance operational performance, navigate reimbursement challenges and prepare for the future of ambulatory surgery. Apply for complimentary registration now.