Evaluating the benefits of machine learning for diagnosing deep vein thrombosis compared with gold standard ultrasound: a feasibility study

Abstract

Background: This study evaluates the feasibility of remote deep venous thrombosis (DVT) diagnosis via ultrasound sequences facilitated by ThinkSono Guidance, an artificial intelligence (AI) app for point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS). Aim: To assess the effectiveness of AI-guided POCUS conducted by non-specialists in capturing valid ultrasound images for remote diagnosis of DVT. Design & setting: Over a 3.5-month period, patients with suspected DVT underwent AI-guided POCUS conducted by non-specialists using a handheld ultrasound probe connected to the app. These ultrasound sequences were uploaded to a cloud dashboard for remote specialist review. Additionally, participants received formal DVT scans. Method: Patients underwent AI-guided POCUS using handheld probes connected to the AI app, followed by formal DVT scans. Ultrasound sequences acquired during the AI-guided scan were uploaded to a cloud dashboard for remote specialist review, where image quality was assessed, and diagnoses were provided. Results: Among 91 predominantly older female participants, 18% of scans were incomplete. Of the rest, 91% had sufficient quality, with 64% categorised by remote clinicians as 'compressible' or 'incompressible'. Sensitivity and specificity for adequately imaged scans were 100% and 91%, respectively. Notably, 53% were low risk, potentially obviating formal scans. Conclusion: ThinkSono Guidance effectively directed non-specialists, streamlining DVT diagnosis and treatment. It may reduce the need for formal scans, particularly with negative findings, and extend diagnostic capabilities to primary care. The study highlights AI-assisted POCUS potential in improving DVT assessment.

Keywords

• clinical (general)
• screening
• diagnosis
• venous thrombosis
• artificial intelligence