The NHSX has a database gathered during the pandemic from more than 40,000 CT scans, as well as X-rays and MRI images obtained from more than 10,000 COVID-19 patients. This has made it possible to search for patterns or markers of disease in new patients.
The application of Artificial Intelligence in COVID-19 patients has benefited in patients receiving faster treatment and reducing hospital stays. The NHSX, the UK's national health service unit responsible for the development and implementation of technology- and data-driven policies and practices, has built a database of more than 40,000 CT scans, X-rays, and MRI scans from 10,000 patients who suffered from COVID-19.
The data collection gave rise to the National Chest Imaging Database (NCCID), "is a centralised UK database containing X-Ray, CT and MRI images from hospital patients across the country. This is to support a better understanding of the COVID-19 virus and develop technology which will enable the best care for patients hospitalised with a severe infection," they explain on their official site.
The data collection allows for faster evaluation of critically ill patients and emergency patients, as well as saving time for radiologists. The database is available to the scientific community through GitHub, with the aim of developing solutions that help reduce hospital occupancy and save lives.
AI has already been used to treat patients: "It is vital we always search for new ways to improve care, especially as we fight the pandemic with the recovery beyond. This excellent work is testament to how technology can help to save lives in the UK," explained Matt Hancock, Secretary of State for Health and Social Care.
Professionals at Addenbrooke's Hospital in Cambridge have begun to develop an algorithm based on the NCCID images, which seeks to compare visual patterns in the images with those of patients, and speed up the diagnostic process. In addition, it is a benefit to hospital resource management by predicting whether additional beds, oxygen tanks, or drugs will be needed.
Dominic Cushnan, director of AI imaging at NHSX, explained the importance of developing AI-based techniques and the possibilities it gives for improving patient treatment: "We are applying the power of artificial intelligence to quickly detect disease patterns and develop new treatments for patients. There is huge potential for patient care, whether through quicker analysis of chest images or better identification of abnormalities."
In addition, researchers from University College London and the University of Bradford have developed studies and research on the application of AI thanks to the database built by the NHSX and the Royal Surrey NHS Foundation Trust.
