Artificial Intelligence in heart and brain ultrasound: the least you need to know.
Authors
Affiliations (5)
Affiliations (5)
- Department of Medicine, ASST Mantova, C. Poma Hospital Strada Lago Paiolo, 10 4600, Mantua, Italy. [email protected].
- Biostatistic Unit, ASST Mantova, C. Poma Hospital Strada Lago Paiolo, 10 4600, Mantua, Italy.
- Department of Physics, Mathematics and Computer Science, University of Modena and Reggio Emilia, 41125, Modena, Italy.
- Ultrasound Association of South-Tyrol, Bolzano Health District, Bolzano, Italy.
- Department of Medicine, ASST Mantova, C. Poma Hospital Strada Lago Paiolo, 10 4600, Mantua, Italy.
Abstract
The application of Artificial Intelligence (AI) in medical imaging has demonstrated substantial potential in enhancing diagnostic accuracy, reducing inter-operator variability, and improving workflow efficiency. This review examines the integration of AI into three ultrasound pillars: echocardiography, carotid ultrasound, and transcranial Doppler (TCD). These techniques have long relied on expert interpretation, but AI-driven advancements now promise to revolutionize clinical practice by providing automated image analysis, improving diagnostic capabilities, and enhancing prognostic prediction. While echocardiography remains a cornerstone in the diagnosis of heart disease, carotid ultrasound and TCD are critical for assessing brain atherosclerosis and stroke risk and management. This narrative review explores AI applications in these domains, highlighting the current state of technology, clinical implications, challenges, and future prospects.