Using AI to prioritize CT scans of the head in emergency departments
A Mixed Methods Study to Assess the Clinical Effectiveness and Acceptability of qER Artificial Intelligence Software to Prioritise CT Head Interpretation.
This study is testing a new AI tool to see if it can help doctors quickly prioritize head CT scans for patients with urgent conditions like trauma and stroke in emergency departments.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Enrollment | 16800 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Guy's and St Thomas' NHS Foundation Trust Academic / other |
| Locations | 4 sites (Glasgow and 3 other locations) |
| Trial ID | NCT06027411 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This observational study evaluates the effectiveness of the qER algorithm, developed by Qure.AI, in analyzing non-contrast CT scans of the head to identify abnormalities. Conducted across four NHS hospitals in the UK, the study aims to improve the prioritization of scans for patients with time-critical conditions such as trauma and stroke. By integrating AI into the radiology workflow, the study seeks to alleviate the backlog faced by radiologists and enhance patient turnover in emergency departments. The algorithm's ability to support clinical decision-making will be assessed through its impact on scan reporting times and patient outcomes.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are individuals undergoing head CT scans in emergency departments due to suspected trauma or neurological conditions.
Not a fit: Patients who do not require a head CT scan or those with conditions not related to head injuries may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly reduce wait times for critical diagnoses in emergency departments, leading to faster treatment for patients with serious head injuries.
How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promising results with AI applications in radiology, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Individuals undergoing Head CT scan at the ED / A\&E (Accident and Emergency Services). * Non-contrast axial CT scan series with consistently spaced axial slices. * Soft reconstruction kernel covering the complete Brain. * Maximum slice thickness of 6mm. Exclusion Criteria: There are no explicit exclusion criteria for qER as all scans in inclusion criteria will be processed by qER. Exclusion criteria are implicit within the inclusion criteria listed above.
Where this trial is running
Glasgow and 3 other locations
- NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde — Glasgow, United Kingdom (Recruiting)
- Guy's and St.Thomas Trusts — London, United Kingdom (Recruiting)
- Northumbria Healthcare NHS Foundation Trust — Northumberland, United Kingdom (Recruiting)
- Oxford University Hospitals — Oxford, United Kingdom (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Haris Shuaib, MSc
- Email: haris.shuaib@gstt.nhs.uk
- Phone: 020 7188 7188
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.