AI Software Cuts MRI Scan Times at Hull Hospitals, Boosting Patient Capacity

Hull University Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust has reported faster MRI scan times after introducing artificial intelligence software, allowing more patients to be seen each day.

Credit: Hull University Teaching Hospitals NHS Trust

The Air Recon Deep Learning (ARDL) software, installed on existing MRI machines, uses algorithms to reduce background noise and produce sharper images in less time.

The technology is currently in use at Hull Royal Infirmary and Castle Hill Hospital, with plans to expand to Scunthorpe General Hospital and Diana, Princess of Wales Hospital in Grimsby.

Karen Bunker, head of imaging at the trust, said the software allows reduced scanning time on certain sequences without compromising image quality. Staff said the software has cut average scan times by 10 to 15 minutes.

A routine MRI head scan now takes 20 minutes instead of 30, while a prostate scan has been reduced from 45 minutes to 30.

The trust can now scan 31 lumbar spine patients over a 12-hour period, compared to 21 previously.

Bunker added that shorter scan times have helped patients with claustrophobia or learning disabilities tolerate the procedure more easily.

Staff also noted a reduction in the number of children requiring general anaesthesia to complete scans.

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• AI software reduces MRI scan times by up to 15 minutes

• Routine head scans now take 20 minutes instead of 30

• Trust can scan 31 lumbar spine patients in 12 hours, up from 21

Source: BBC