1
|
Murali S, Ding H, Adedeji F, Qin C, Obungoloch J, Asllani I, Anazodo U, Ntusi NAB, Mammen R, Niendorf T, Adeleke S. Bringing MRI to low- and middle-income countries: Directions, challenges and potential solutions. NMR IN BIOMEDICINE 2024; 37:e4992. [PMID: 37401341 DOI: 10.1002/nbm.4992] [Citation(s) in RCA: 8] [Impact Index Per Article: 8.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/20/2022] [Revised: 05/27/2023] [Accepted: 05/30/2023] [Indexed: 07/05/2023]
Abstract
The global disparity of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a major challenge, with many low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) experiencing limited access to MRI. The reasons for limited access are technological, economic and social. With the advancement of MRI technology, we explore why these challenges still prevail, highlighting the importance of MRI as the epidemiology of disease changes in LMICs. In this paper, we establish a framework to develop MRI with these challenges in mind and discuss the different aspects of MRI development, including maximising image quality using cost-effective components, integrating local technology and infrastructure and implementing sustainable practices. We also highlight the current solutions-including teleradiology, artificial intelligence and doctor and patient education strategies-and how these might be further improved to achieve greater access to MRI.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Sanjana Murali
- School of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Hao Ding
- School of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, Imperial College London, London, UK
| | - Fope Adedeji
- School of Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, University College London, London, UK
| | - Cathy Qin
- Department of Imaging, Imperial College Healthcare NHS Trust, London, UK
| | - Johnes Obungoloch
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Mbarara University of Science and Technology, Mbarara, Uganda
| | - Iris Asllani
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Rochester Institute of Technology, Rochester, New York, USA
| | - Udunna Anazodo
- Department of Medical Biophysics, Western University, London, Ontario, Canada
- The Research Institute of London Health Sciences Centre and St. Joseph's Health Care, London, Ontario, Canada
| | - Ntobeko A B Ntusi
- Department of Medicine, University of Cape Town and Groote Schuur Hospital, Cape Town, South Africa
- South African Medical Research Council Extramural Unit on Intersection of Noncommunicable Diseases and Infectious Diseases, Cape Town, South Africa
| | - Regina Mammen
- Department of Cardiology, The Essex Cardiothoracic Centre, Basildon, UK
| | - Thoralf Niendorf
- Berlin Ultrahigh Field Facility (BUFF), Max-Delbrück Centre for Molecular Medicine in the Helmholtz Association, Berlin, Germany
| | - Sola Adeleke
- School of Cancer & Pharmaceutical Sciences, King's College London, London, UK
- High Dimensional Neuro-oncology, University College London Queen Square Institute of Neurology, Faculty of Brain Sciences, University College London, London, UK
| |
Collapse
|
2
|
Ochitwa Z, Fotouhi R, Adams SJ, Noguera Cundar AP, Obaid H. MSK-TIM: A Telerobotic Ultrasound System for Assessing the Musculoskeletal System. SENSORS (BASEL, SWITZERLAND) 2024; 24:2368. [PMID: 38610578 PMCID: PMC11013981 DOI: 10.3390/s24072368] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/23/2024] [Revised: 03/21/2024] [Accepted: 04/04/2024] [Indexed: 04/14/2024]
Abstract
The aim of this paper is to investigate technological advancements made to a robotic tele-ultrasound system for musculoskeletal imaging, the MSK-TIM (Musculoskeletal Telerobotic Imaging Machine). The hardware was enhanced with a force feedback sensor and a new controller was introduced. Software improvements were developed which allowed the operator to access ultrasound functions such as focus, depth, gain, zoom, color, and power Doppler controls. The device was equipped with Wi-Fi network capability which allowed the master and slave stations to be positioned in different locations. A trial assessing the system to scan the wrist was conducted with twelve participants, for a total of twenty-four arms. Both the participants and radiologist reported their experience. The images obtained were determined to be of satisfactory quality for diagnosis. The system improvements resulted in a better user and patient experience for the radiologist and participants. Latency with the VPN configuration was similar to the WLAN in our experiments. This research explores several technologies in medical telerobotics and provides insight into how they should be used in future. This study provides evidence to support larger-scale trials of the MSK-TIM for musculoskeletal imaging.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Zachary Ochitwa
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5A9, Canada; (Z.O.); (A.P.N.C.)
| | - Reza Fotouhi
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5A9, Canada; (Z.O.); (A.P.N.C.)
| | - Scott J. Adams
- Department of Medical Imaging, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 0W8, Canada; (S.J.A.); (H.O.)
| | - Adriana Paola Noguera Cundar
- Department of Mechanical Engineering, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 5A9, Canada; (Z.O.); (A.P.N.C.)
| | - Haron Obaid
- Department of Medical Imaging, University of Saskatchewan, Saskatoon, SK S7N 0W8, Canada; (S.J.A.); (H.O.)
| |
Collapse
|
3
|
Small Animal Teleultrasound. Vet Clin North Am Small Anim Pract 2022; 52:1141-1151. [PMID: 36150791 DOI: 10.1016/j.cvsm.2022.05.004] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/21/2022]
Abstract
Teleradiology is well established in many small animal practices, whereas teleultrasound is slowly gaining prominence. The demand for teleultrasound services in the veterinary profession has increased substantially because access to ultrasound to general practitioners increases faster than the number of imaging specialists and Point of Care Ultrasound (POCUS) becomes part of the standard of care. Two main methods of teleultrasound currently exist: asynchronous (eg, "store-and-forward") and synchronous (eg, real-time) interpretations. Few standardized protocols for teleultrasound in small animals are available. Similarly, there are no standardized training programs for sonographic examination acquisition and interpretation outside of the traditional diagnostic imaging residency under the purview of the American College of Veterinary Radiology. The success of a telesonographic evaluation largely depends on the relationship between the veterinarian requesting remote assistance and the expert providing support.
Collapse
|
4
|
Abstract
The delivery of healthcare from a distance, also known as telemedicine, has evolved over the past 50 years, changing the way healthcare is delivered globally. Its integration into numerous domains has permitted high-quality care that transcends the obstacles of geographic distance, lack of access to health care providers, and cost. Ultrasound is an effective diagnostic tool and its application within telemedicine has advanced substantially in recent years, particularly in high-income settings and low-resource areas. The literature in Pubmed from 1960–2020 was assessed with the keywords “ultrasound”, “telemedicine”, “ultrasound remote”, and “tele-ultrasound” to conduct a SWOT analysis (strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats). In addressing strengths and opportunities, we emphasized practical aspects, such as the usefulness of tele-ultrasound and the cost efficiency of it. Furthermore, aspects of medical education in tele-ultrasound were considered. When it came to weaknesses and threats, we focused on issues that may not be solved immediately, and that require careful consideration or further development, such as new software that is not yet available commercially.
Collapse
|
5
|
Cano-Nigenda V, Castellanos-Pedroza E, Manrique-Otero D, Méndez B, Menéndez-Manjarrez MF, Toledo-Treviño R, Calderón M, Arauz A. Barriers to Optimal Acute Management of Stroke: Perspective of a Stroke Center in Mexico City. Front Neurol 2021; 12:690946. [PMID: 34950095 PMCID: PMC8688839 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2021.690946] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/05/2021] [Accepted: 11/05/2021] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Stroke is a leading cause of death and disability worldwide, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. We aimed to identify the main barriers to optimal acute management of stroke in a referral center. Methods: Demographic data was collected from patients assessed with acute stroke in the emergency department of the Instituto Nacional de Neurología y Neurocirugía (INNN) from January to June 2019. Additionally, a telephone interview was conducted with patients/primary caregiver to know which they considered the main reason for the delay in arrival at INNN since the onset of stroke. Results: 116 patients were assessed [age 65 ± 15 years, 67 (57.8%) men]. Patients consulted other facilities prior to arrival at INNN in 59 (50.9%) cases (range of hospitals visited 1-4), 83 (71.6%) arrived in a private car, with prenotification in only 4 (3.4%) of the total sample. The mean onset-to-door time was 17 h (45 min-10 days). Telephone interviews were done in 61 patients/primary caregivers, stating that they consider the multiple evaluations in other facilities [n = 26/61 (42.6%)] as the main reason for delay in arrival at the ED, followed by ignorance of stroke symptoms and treatment urgency [n = 21/61 (34.4%)]. Conclusion: In this small, retrospective, single center study, the main prehospital barrier to optimal acute management of stroke in a developing country is multiple medical evaluations prior to the patient's transport to a specialized stroke hospital, who mostly arrived in a private car and without prenotification. These barriers can be overcome by strengthening public education and improving patient transfer networks and telemedicine.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Vanessa Cano-Nigenda
- Stroke Clinic, Instituto Nacional de Neurología y Neurocirugía Manuel Velasco Suárez, Mexico City, Mexico
| | | | - Diana Manrique-Otero
- Stroke Clinic, Instituto Nacional de Neurología y Neurocirugía Manuel Velasco Suárez, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Beatriz Méndez
- Department of Endovascular Therapy, Instituto Nacional de Neurología y Neurocirugía Manuel Velasco Suárez, Mexico City, Mexico
| | | | - Roberto Toledo-Treviño
- Stroke Clinic, Instituto Nacional de Neurología y Neurocirugía Manuel Velasco Suárez, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Miguel Calderón
- Stroke Clinic, Instituto Nacional de Neurología y Neurocirugía Manuel Velasco Suárez, Mexico City, Mexico
| | - Antonio Arauz
- Stroke Clinic, Instituto Nacional de Neurología y Neurocirugía Manuel Velasco Suárez, Mexico City, Mexico
| |
Collapse
|
6
|
Hricak H, Abdel-Wahab M, Atun R, Lette MM, Paez D, Brink JA, Donoso-Bach L, Frija G, Hierath M, Holmberg O, Khong PL, Lewis JS, McGinty G, Oyen WJG, Shulman LN, Ward ZJ, Scott AM. Medical imaging and nuclear medicine: a Lancet Oncology Commission. Lancet Oncol 2021; 22:e136-e172. [PMID: 33676609 PMCID: PMC8444235 DOI: 10.1016/s1470-2045(20)30751-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 120] [Impact Index Per Article: 40.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/11/2020] [Revised: 12/04/2020] [Accepted: 12/07/2020] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
The diagnosis and treatment of patients with cancer requires access to imaging to ensure accurate management decisions and optimal outcomes. Our global assessment of imaging and nuclear medicine resources identified substantial shortages in equipment and workforce, particularly in low-income and middle-income countries (LMICs). A microsimulation model of 11 cancers showed that the scale-up of imaging would avert 3·2% (2·46 million) of all 76·0 million deaths caused by the modelled cancers worldwide between 2020 and 2030, saving 54·92 million life-years. A comprehensive scale-up of imaging, treatment, and care quality would avert 9·55 million (12·5%) of all cancer deaths caused by the modelled cancers worldwide, saving 232·30 million life-years. Scale-up of imaging would cost US$6·84 billion in 2020-30 but yield lifetime productivity gains of $1·23 trillion worldwide, a net return of $179·19 per $1 invested. Combining the scale-up of imaging, treatment, and quality of care would provide a net benefit of $2·66 trillion and a net return of $12·43 per $1 invested. With the use of a conservative approach regarding human capital, the scale-up of imaging alone would provide a net benefit of $209·46 billion and net return of $31·61 per $1 invested. With comprehensive scale-up, the worldwide net benefit using the human capital approach is $340·42 billion and the return per dollar invested is $2·46. These improved health and economic outcomes hold true across all geographical regions. We propose actions and investments that would enhance access to imaging equipment, workforce capacity, digital technology, radiopharmaceuticals, and research and training programmes in LMICs, to produce massive health and economic benefits and reduce the burden of cancer globally.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Hedvig Hricak
- Department of Radiology, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA; Department of Radiology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA.
| | - May Abdel-Wahab
- International Atomic Energy Agency, Division of Human Health, Vienna, Austria; Radiation Oncology, National Cancer Institute, Cairo University, Cairo, Egypt; Graduate School of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Hiroshima University, Hiroshima, Japan
| | - Rifat Atun
- Department of Global Health and Population, Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA; Department of Global Health and Social Medicine, Harvard Medical School, Harvard University, Boston, MA, USA
| | | | - Diana Paez
- International Atomic Energy Agency, Division of Human Health, Vienna, Austria
| | - James A Brink
- Department of Radiology, Massachusetts General Hospital, Harvard Medical School, Harvard University, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Lluís Donoso-Bach
- Department of Medical Imaging, Hospital Clínic of Barcelona, University of Barcelona, Barcelona, Spain
| | | | | | - Ola Holmberg
- Radiation Protection of Patients Unit, International Atomic Energy Agency, Vienna, Austria
| | - Pek-Lan Khong
- Department of Diagnostic Radiology, University of Hong Kong, Hong Kong Special Administrative Region, China
| | - Jason S Lewis
- Department of Radiology and Molecular Pharmacology Programme, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, New York, NY, USA; Departments of Pharmacology and Radiology, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA
| | - Geraldine McGinty
- Departments of Radiology and Population Science, Weill Cornell Medical College, New York, NY, USA; American College of Radiology, Reston, VA, USA
| | - Wim J G Oyen
- Department of Biomedical Sciences and Humanitas Clinical and Research Centre, Department of Nuclear Medicine, Humanitas University, Milan, Italy; Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Rijnstate Hospital, Arnhem, Netherlands; Department of Radiology and Nuclear Medicine, Radboud University Medical Centre, Nijmegen, Netherlands
| | - Lawrence N Shulman
- Department of Medicine, Abramson Cancer Center, University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Zachary J Ward
- Center for Health Decision Science, Harvard TH Chan School of Public Health, Boston, MA, USA
| | - Andrew M Scott
- Tumour Targeting Laboratory, Olivia Newton-John Cancer Research Institute, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; Department of Molecular Imaging and Therapy, Austin Health, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; School of Cancer Medicine, La Trobe University, Melbourne, VIC, Australia; Department of Medicine, University of Melbourne, Melbourne, VIC, Australia
| |
Collapse
|
7
|
Pandian JD, Kalkonde Y, Sebastian IA, Felix C, Urimubenshi G, Bosch J. Stroke systems of care in low-income and middle-income countries: challenges and opportunities. Lancet 2020; 396:1443-1451. [PMID: 33129395 DOI: 10.1016/s0140-6736(20)31374-x] [Citation(s) in RCA: 46] [Impact Index Per Article: 11.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/26/2020] [Revised: 04/18/2020] [Accepted: 06/09/2020] [Indexed: 12/27/2022]
Abstract
The burden of stroke is higher in low-income and middle-income countries (LMICs) than in high-income countries and is rising. Even though there are global policies and guidelines for implementing stroke care, there are many challenges in setting up stroke services in LMICs. Despite these challenges, there are many models of stroke care available in LMICs-eg, multidisciplinary team care led by a stroke neurologist, specialist-led care by neurologists, physician-led care, hub and spoke models incorporating stroke telemedicine (ie, telestroke), and task sharing involving community health workers. Alternative strategies have been developed, such as reorganising the existing hospital infrastructure by training health professionals to implement protocol-driven care. The future challenge is to identify what elements of organised stroke care can be implemented to make the largest gain. Simple interventions such as swallowing assessments, bowel and bladder care, mobility assessments, and consistent secondary prevention can prove to be key elements to improving post-discharge morbidity and mortality in LMICs.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Jeyaraj D Pandian
- Department of Neurology, Christian Medical College, Ludhiana, India.
| | | | | | - Cynthia Felix
- Department of Epidemiology, Graduate School of Public Health, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, PA, USA
| | - Gerard Urimubenshi
- College of Medicine and Health Sciences, University of Rwanda, Kigali, Rwanda; Institute of Cardiovascular and Medical Sciences, University of Glasgow, Glasgow, UK
| | - Jackie Bosch
- School of Rehabilitation Science, McMaster University, Hamilton, ON, Canada
| |
Collapse
|
8
|
Salerno A, Tupchong K, Verceles AC, McCurdy MT. Point-of-Care Teleultrasound: A Systematic Review. Telemed J E Health 2020; 26:1314-1321. [PMID: 32302520 DOI: 10.1089/tmj.2019.0177] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/29/2022] Open
Abstract
Background: Telemedicine and point-of-care ultrasound have merged to create a field known as teleultrasound (TUS). Real-time TUS involves the transmission of bedside ultrasound (US) images with direct feedback from an US expert. In this review, we summarize the current uses of real-time TUS and discuss its potential future uses. Methods: We performed a literature search (PubMed and EMBase) to assess articles related to real-time TUS. Data were extracted using a standardized collection form, and relevant articles were separated into feasibility or clinical studies. Results: Our search yielded 45 articles, with most of the reports taking place in resource-constrained settings. A large portion of the studies discussed the use of the focused assessment with sonography in trauma exam. Others included musculoskeletal, vascular, and echocardiography. Conclusion: Real-time TUS allows for rapid access to diagnostic imaging in various clinical settings. This technology is poised to expand with many uses on the horizon.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Alexis Salerno
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Keegan Tupchong
- Division of Critical Care Medicine, Department of Emergency Medicine, McGovern Medical School, University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston, Houston, Texas, USA
| | - Avelino C Verceles
- Division of Pulmonary & Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| | - Michael T McCurdy
- Department of Emergency Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA.,Division of Pulmonary & Critical Care Medicine, Department of Medicine, University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, Maryland, USA
| |
Collapse
|
9
|
Britton N, Miller MA, Safadi S, Siegel A, Levine AR, McCurdy MT. Tele-Ultrasound in Resource-Limited Settings: A Systematic Review. Front Public Health 2019; 7:244. [PMID: 31552212 PMCID: PMC6738135 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2019.00244] [Citation(s) in RCA: 66] [Impact Index Per Article: 13.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/01/2019] [Accepted: 08/13/2019] [Indexed: 01/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: Telemedicine, or healthcare delivery from a distance, has evolved over the past 50 years and helped alter health care delivery to patients around the globe. Its integration into numerous domains has permitted high quality care that transcends obstacles of geographic distance, lack of access to health care providers, and cost. Ultrasound is an effective diagnostic tool and its application within telemedicine (“tele-ultrasound”) has advanced substantially in recent years, particularly in high-income settings. However, the utility of tele-ultrasound in resource-limited settings is less firmly established. Objective: To determine whether remote tele-ultrasound is a feasible, accurate, and care-altering imaging tool in resource-limited settings. Data Sources: PubMed, MEDLINE, and Embase. Study Eligibility Criteria: Twelve original articles met the following eligibility criteria: full manuscript available, written in English, including a direct patient-care intervention, performed in a resource-limited setting, images sent to a remote expert reader for interpretation and feedback, contained objective data on the impact of tele-ultrasound. Study Appraisal and Synthesis Methods: Abstracts were independently screened by two authors against inclusion criteria for full-text review. Any discrepancies were settled by a senior author. Data was extracted from each study using a modified Cochrane Consumers and Communication Review Group's data extraction template. Study bias was evaluated using the ROBINS-I tool. Results: The study results reflect the diverse applications of tele-ultrasound in low-resource settings. Africa was the most common study location. The specialties of cardiology and obstetrics comprised most studies. Two studies primarily relied on smartphones for image recording and transmission. Real-time, rather than asynchronous, tele-ultrasound image interpretation occurred in five of the 12 studies. The most common outcome measures were image quality, telemedicine system requirements, diagnostic accuracy, and changes in clinical management. Limitations: The studies included were of poor quality with a dearth of randomized control trials and with significant between study heterogeneity which resulted in incomplete data and made cross study comparison difficult. Conclusions and Implications of Key Findings: Low-quality evidence suggests that ultrasound images acquired in resource-limited settings and transmitted using a telemedical platform to an expert interpreter are of satisfactory quality and value for clinical diagnosis and management.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Noel Britton
- University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Michael A Miller
- University of Pittsburgh Medical Center, Pittsburgh, PA, United States
| | - Sami Safadi
- University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Ariel Siegel
- University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Andrea R Levine
- University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health, Pittsburgh, PA, United States.,University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| | - Michael T McCurdy
- University of Maryland School of Medicine, Baltimore, MD, United States
| |
Collapse
|
10
|
Abstract
Ultrasound is an efficacious, versatile and affordable imaging technique in emergencies, but has limited utility without expert interpretation. Telesonography, in which experts may remotely support the use of ultrasound through a telecommunications link, may broaden access to ultrasound and improve patient outcomes, particularly in remote settings. This review assesses the literature regarding telesonography in emergency medicine, focussing on evidence of feasibility, diagnostic accuracy and clinical utility. A systematic search was performed for articles published from 1946 to February 2017 using the Cochrane, Medline, EMBASE, and CINAHL databases. Further searches utilising Scopus, Google Scholar, and citation lists were conducted. 4388 titles were identified and screened against inclusion criteria which resulted in the inclusion of 28 papers. These included feasibility, diagnostic accuracy and clinical pilot studies. Study design, methodology and quality were heterogeneous. There was good evidence of feasibility from multiple studies. Where sufficient bandwidth and high quality components were used, diagnostic accuracy was slightly reduced by image transmission. There was evidence of clinical utility in remote hospitals and low-resource settings, although reliability was infrequently reported. Further exploratory research is required to determine minimum requirements for image quality, bandwidth, frame rate and to assess diagnostic accuracy. Clinical trials in remote settings are justifiable. Telecommunication options will depend on local requirements; no one system conveys universal advantages. The methodological quality of research in this field must improve: studies should be designed to minimise bias, and must include details of their methods to allow replication. Analysis of cost effectiveness and sustainability should be provided.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | - Leila Eadie
- Centre for Rural Health, University of Aberdeen, Inverness, Scotland, United Kingdom
| | - Philip Wilson
- Centre for Rural Health, University of Aberdeen, Inverness, Scotland, United Kingdom
| |
Collapse
|
11
|
Loh BCS, Then PHH. Deep learning for cardiac computer-aided diagnosis: benefits, issues & solutions. Mhealth 2017; 3:45. [PMID: 29184897 PMCID: PMC5682365 DOI: 10.21037/mhealth.2017.09.01] [Citation(s) in RCA: 20] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/13/2016] [Accepted: 08/28/2017] [Indexed: 12/27/2022] Open
Abstract
Cardiovascular diseases are one of the top causes of deaths worldwide. In developing nations and rural areas, difficulties with diagnosis and treatment are made worse due to the deficiency of healthcare facilities. A viable solution to this issue is telemedicine, which involves delivering health care and sharing medical knowledge at a distance. Additionally, mHealth, the utilization of mobile devices for medical care, has also proven to be a feasible choice. The integration of telemedicine, mHealth and computer-aided diagnosis systems with the fields of machine and deep learning has enabled the creation of effective services that are adaptable to a multitude of scenarios. The objective of this review is to provide an overview of heart disease diagnosis and management, especially within the context of rural healthcare, as well as discuss the benefits, issues and solutions of implementing deep learning algorithms to improve the efficacy of relevant medical applications.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Brian C S Loh
- Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak Campus, Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia
| | - Patrick H H Then
- Swinburne University of Technology Sarawak Campus, Kuching, Sarawak, Malaysia
| |
Collapse
|
12
|
Pandian JD, William AG, Kate MP, Norrving B, Mensah GA, Davis S, Roth GA, Thrift AG, Kengne AP, Kissela BM, Yu C, Kim D, Rojas-Rueda D, Tirschwell DL, Abd-Allah F, Gankpé F, deVeber G, Hankey GJ, Jonas JB, Sheth KN, Dokova K, Mehndiratta MM, Geleijnse JM, Giroud M, Bejot Y, Sacco R, Sahathevan R, Hamadeh RR, Gillum R, Westerman R, Akinyemi RO, Barker-Collo S, Truelsen T, Caso V, Rajagopalan V, Venketasubramanian N, Vlassovi VV, Feigin VL. Strategies to Improve Stroke Care Services in Low- and Middle-Income Countries: A Systematic Review. Neuroepidemiology 2017; 49:45-61. [DOI: 10.1159/000479518] [Citation(s) in RCA: 52] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/28/2017] [Accepted: 07/11/2017] [Indexed: 01/10/2023] Open
Abstract
Background: The burden of stroke in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) is large and increasing, challenging the already stretched health-care services. Aims and Objectives: To determine the quality of existing stroke-care services in LMICs and to highlight indigenous, inexpensive, evidence-based implementable strategies being used in stroke-care. Methods: A detailed literature search was undertaken using PubMed and Google scholar from January 1966 to October 2015 using a range of search terms. Of 921 publications, 373 papers were shortlisted and 31 articles on existing stroke-services were included. Results: We identified efficient models of ambulance transport and pre-notification. Stroke Units (SU) are available in some countries, but are relatively sparse and mostly provided by the private sector. Very few patients were thrombolysed; this could be increased with telemedicine and governmental subsidies. Adherence to secondary preventive drugs is affected by limited availability and affordability, emphasizing the importance of primary prevention. Training of paramedics, care-givers and nurses in post-stroke care is feasible. Conclusion: In this systematic review, we found several reports on evidence-based implementable stroke services in LMICs. Some strategies are economic, feasible and reproducible but remain untested. Data on their outcomes and sustainability is limited. Further research on implementation of locally and regionally adapted stroke-services and cost-effective secondary prevention programs should be a priority.
Collapse
|
13
|
Molinari G, Molinari M, Di Biase M, Brunetti ND. Telecardiology and its settings of application: An update. J Telemed Telecare 2017; 24:373-381. [PMID: 28084886 DOI: 10.1177/1357633x16689432] [Citation(s) in RCA: 30] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/11/2023]
Abstract
Among the wide range of medical specialties in which telemedicine has been successfully applied, cardiology can be considered as one of the most important fields of application. Through the transmission of clinical data and the electrocardiogram, telecardiology allows access to a real-time assessment (teleconsultation) without any need to travel for both patient and cardiologist. This review discusses the impact of telecardiology in different clinical settings of application. Pre-hospital telecardiology has proved to be useful either in the clinical management of remote patients with acute coronary syndrome or in supporting the decision-making process of general practitioners. In the setting of in-hospital telecardiology, most of the applications refer to real-time echocardiography transmissions between rural small hospitals and tertiary care centres, particularly for the diagnosis or exclusion of congenital heart disease in newborns. Finally, many trials show that post-hospital telecardiology improves outcomes and reduces re-admissions or outpatient contacts in patients with heart failure, arrhythmias or implantable devices.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Matteo Di Biase
- 2 Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia, Italy
| | - Natale D Brunetti
- 2 Department of Medical and Surgical Sciences, University of Foggia, Italy
| |
Collapse
|
14
|
Zennaro F, Neri E, Nappi F, Grosso D, Triunfo R, Cabras F, Frexia F, Norbedo S, Guastalla P, Gregori M, Cattaruzzi E, Sanabor D, Barbi E, Lazzerini M. Real-Time Tele-Mentored Low Cost "Point-of-Care US" in the Hands of Paediatricians in the Emergency Department: Diagnostic Accuracy Compared to Expert Radiologists. PLoS One 2016; 11:e0164539. [PMID: 27749905 PMCID: PMC5066956 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0164539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 18] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/20/2016] [Accepted: 09/27/2016] [Indexed: 01/12/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The use of point-of-care ultrasonography (POC US) in paediatrics is increasing. This study investigated the diagnostic accuracy of POC US in children accessing the emergency department (ED) when performed by paediatricians under the remote guidance of radiologists (TELE POC). METHODS Children aged 0 to 18 years accessing the ED of a third level research hospital with eight possible clinical scenarios and without emergency/severity signs at the triage underwent three subsequent US tests: by a paediatrician guided remotely by a radiologist (TELE POC); by the same radiologist (UNBLIND RAD); by an independent blinded radiologist (BLIND RAD). Tele-radiology was implemented using low cost "commercial off-the-shelf" (COTS) equipment and open-source software. Data were prospectively collected on predefined templates. RESULTS Fifty-two children were enrolled, for a total of 170 ultrasound findings. Sensitivity, specificity, positive and negative predictive values of TELE POC were: 93.8, 99.7, 96.8, 99.4 when compared to UNBLIND RAD and 88.2, 99.7, 96.8, 98.7 when compared to BLIND RAD. The inter-observers agreement between the paediatricians and either the unblind or blind radiologist was excellent (k = 0.93). The mean duration of TELE POC was 6.3 minutes (95% CI 4.1 to 8.5). Technical difficulties occurred in two (3.8%) cases. Quality of the transmission was rated as fair, good, very good and excellent in 7.7%, 15.4%, 42.3% and 34.6% of cases respectively, while in no case was it rated as poor. CONCLUSIONS POC US performed by paediatricians in ED guided via tele-radiology by an expert radiologist (TELE POC) produced reliable and timely diagnoses. Findings of this study, especially for the rarer conditions under evaluation, need further confirmation. Future research should investigate the overall benefits and the cost savings of using tele-ultrasound to perform US "at children's bedsides", under remote guidance of expert radiologists.
Collapse
Affiliation(s)
- Floriana Zennaro
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health IRCCS "Burlo Garofolo”, Via dell’istria 65/1, Trieste, Italy
| | - Elena Neri
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health IRCCS "Burlo Garofolo”, Via dell’istria 65/1, Trieste, Italy
| | | | - Daniele Grosso
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health IRCCS "Burlo Garofolo”, Via dell’istria 65/1, Trieste, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Stefania Norbedo
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health IRCCS "Burlo Garofolo”, Via dell’istria 65/1, Trieste, Italy
| | - Pierpaolo Guastalla
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health IRCCS "Burlo Garofolo”, Via dell’istria 65/1, Trieste, Italy
| | - Massino Gregori
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health IRCCS "Burlo Garofolo”, Via dell’istria 65/1, Trieste, Italy
| | - Elisabetta Cattaruzzi
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health IRCCS "Burlo Garofolo”, Via dell’istria 65/1, Trieste, Italy
| | - Daniela Sanabor
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health IRCCS "Burlo Garofolo”, Via dell’istria 65/1, Trieste, Italy
| | - Egidio Barbi
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health IRCCS "Burlo Garofolo”, Via dell’istria 65/1, Trieste, Italy
| | - Marzia Lazzerini
- Institute for Maternal and Child Health IRCCS "Burlo Garofolo”, Via dell’istria 65/1, Trieste, Italy
- * E-mail:
| |
Collapse
|
15
|
Wootton R, Bonnardot L. Telemedicine in low-resource settings. Front Public Health 2015; 3:3. [PMID: 25654074 PMCID: PMC4300819 DOI: 10.3389/fpubh.2015.00003] [Citation(s) in RCA: 31] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/28/2014] [Accepted: 01/02/2015] [Indexed: 01/18/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Richard Wootton
- Norwegian Centre for Integrated Care and Telemedicine, University Hospital of North Norway , Tromsø , Norway ; Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Tromsø , Tromsø , Norway
| | - Laurent Bonnardot
- Fondation Médecins Sans Frontières , Paris , France ; Department of Medical Ethics and Legal Medicine (EA 4569), Paris Descartes University , Paris , France
| |
Collapse
|