Using AI to identify undiagnosed heart diseases from ECGs

Capitalizing on Artificial Intelligence to Capture Undiagnosed Structural Heart Disease from Electrocardiograms (CACTUS)

['FUNDING_R01'] · COLUMBIA UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES · NIH-11029663

This study is testing a new tool called EchoNext that uses heart wave data to help doctors find heart problems in patients who come to the emergency room, especially those who might not usually get the tests they need.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_R01']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorCOLUMBIA UNIVERSITY HEALTH SCIENCES (nih funded)
Locations1 site (NEW YORK, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-11029663 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research focuses on improving the detection of structural heart disease (SHD) using a deep learning model called EchoNext, which analyzes raw electrocardiogram (ECG) waveforms. By leveraging a large database of ECGs and echocardiograms, the model aims to accurately predict SHD and identify patients who may need further evaluation through echocardiography. This approach is particularly beneficial for patients in emergency departments, especially those from disadvantaged backgrounds who may not have access to standard diagnostic methods. The study will assess the effectiveness of EchoNext in detecting undiagnosed SHD among patients presenting to emergency departments.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research include patients presenting to emergency departments who may have undiagnosed structural heart disease.

Not a fit: Patients with known structural heart disease or those who do not present to emergency departments may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to earlier diagnosis and treatment of structural heart disease, potentially reducing cardiovascular morbidity and mortality.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using AI for medical diagnostics, indicating potential success for this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

NEW YORK, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.