The stethoscope, a 200-year-old medical staple, is getting a hi-tech upgrade. UK doctors at Imperial College London have developed an AI-powered stethoscope capable of detecting heart conditions in just 15 seconds. Unlike traditional stethoscopes, this device can diagnose heart failure, abnormal heart rhythms, and heart valve disease by analyzing subtle heartbeat and blood flow variations invisible to the human ear.

The rectangular chest-piece records an ECG while a microphone captures heart sounds. Data is sent to the cloud, where AI algorithms analyze it, and results are accessible via smartphone. Funded partly by the British Heart Foundation and NIHR, this innovation promises early diagnosis, crucial for effective treatment.

Experts warn, however, that the AI stethoscope should only be used for patients showing symptoms, not routine check-ups. Dr Patrik Bächtiger says, “It’s incredible that a 15-second exam can detect heart failure or atrial fibrillation.” Dr Sonya Babu-Narayan emphasizes early detection can help patients access treatment sooner, potentially saving lives.

This breakthrough aligns with the growing trend of predictive AI in healthcare, though caution is advised, as AI misdiagnoses can occur due to information hallucination.