AI “FDA approved” to detect 99% of atrial fibrillation

Medical device manufacturer Eko announced that its developed atrial fibrillation detection AI and heart disease testing program using an electronic stethoscope has been approved by the Food and Drug Administration.

Echo is a developer of electronic stethoscopes. In 2015, Eko Core, an electronic stethoscope that analyzes auscultation records with a dedicated app, was developed, and in 2019, Eko DUO, which added a new function to diagnose heart diseases such as heart valves from heartbeat, was announced. This time, it is said that the Echo Duo is equipped with a new AI that detects atrial fibrillation and can respond to heart disease in a wide range.

Atrial fibrillation is a symptom in which a part of the atrium moves irregularly. When it becomes chronic, the pump function of the heart decreases, causing heart disease such as heart failure. Early detection before becoming chronic is important, but detection of atrial fibrillation is not easy. According to the European Heart Journal, initial diagnosis detection is known to be 43%. However, according to Echo, atrial fibrillation can be detected with a sensitivity of 99% by examining the Echo Duo.

The specific medical examination method is to first check the ECG and heart sound that measure the heart rate with the Echo Duo, identify this data with a dedicated app, and then review heart disease using AI. The biggest advantage is that you can easily perform detailed inspections with only a tablet or smartphone with the Eco Duo and app installed.

The product is expected to be distributed to the medical field soon after FDA approval. Related information can be found here .