Technology has transformed cardiac health for patients and professionals. Discover how new medical technology is improving the fight against heart disease.

Technology is progressing at an unstoppable rate, and the medical field is perhaps the sector that is reaping the most benefits from this progress.

New technologies in medicine are simplifying, optimizing, and streamlining processes from medical record sharing to robot-assisted surgery.

Almost half of American adults suffer from some form of cardiovascular disease. Technology has transformed cardiac health for both patients and medical professionals.

Keep reading to discover how new medical technology is improving the fight against heart disease.

Artificial Intelligence

Artificial intelligence is playing a complex and diverse role in cardiovascular medicine.

From improving accuracy and productivity in radiology labs to using chatbot technology for diagnostics, the possibilities for AI-related technologies in medicine are limitless.

Here are some of the ways advancements in artificial intelligence are directly benefitting both patients and medical professionals.

Radiology & Image Analysis

AI tech employs complex algorithms that streamline the image analysis process. Machine learning systems are able to anticipate and learn from previous user preferences to accelerate and automate the analysis process.

This procedure allows radiologists to perform their tasks faster and more efficiently. Plus, it’s been proven to out-perform humans in the efficiency and accuracy of image analysis.

This doesn’t mean AI will completely replace the role of radiologists. But it does improve and expedite the process. Which, in turn, saves valuable time and resources.

Voice Recognition Software

Anyone who’s ever evoked a response from Alexa or Siri knows just how responsive voice recognition software can be. And Amazon’s Alexa is at the forefront of the medical world.

The American Heart Association has developed a special skill for Alexa, which allows the software to recognize heart attack and stroke symptoms. It can also walk users through performing CPR step-by-step.

Another organization has developed skills for Alexa to monitor users’ blood pressure. All the user has to do is connect their blood pressure monitor to the system and set up an alert if there are any changes.

This feature alone could be lifesaving. High blood pressure is one of the leading causes of heart failure. So, being alerted to a higher than normal reading can ensure you get to the hospital and get help before it’s too late.

Chatbots

Chatbots are used to save time when collecting information from patients prior to their visit to the doctor.

Many clinics now use chatbot technology, which securely records patient symptoms and communications. By having this information ahead of time, doctors can make a diagnosis and prescribe the relevant treatment much faster.

Chatbot tech can also help clinics prioritize their time by confirming and following up on scheduled appointments.

Robot-Assisted Surgery

Perhaps the most complex application of artificial intelligence in medicine is the use of robotics for assisted surgery.

Currently only being used for minimally invasive surgeries, robot-assisted surgery can help to improve precision, flexibility, and control on the operating table.

To be clear, it’s not the robot itself that is performing the surgery. Using robotics for assistance can help surgeons perform complex procedures that may otherwise be impossible.

Blockchain

Blockchain technology isn’t only making waves in the financial world. It’s now being utilized to create what are known as smart contracts within the medical sector.

This new tech is quickly revolutionizing the way patient health records are shared. Right now, the way the health care industry shares and inputs information is heavily reliant on human accuracy.

Let’s face it, mistakes happen. But one small data entry mistake can have catastrophic consequences and can, in serious cases, even lead to death.

Blockchain tech has found a way to optimize the data entry process. Using this technology, patients can now review and take control of their personal health information.

Smart contracts also make it much easier for medical professionals to share information when a patient moves. Or when they require attention from a different department.

Telemedicine

When you think of going to the doctor, what’s the first thing that crosses your mind? Spending hours in a bleak waiting room?

Telemedicine apps are providing a much needed digital alternative to actually going to the doctor’s office.

Many experts believe that telemedicine is the way of the future. And with 97% of patients saying they were satisfied with their first telemedicine experience – it’s no wonder why.

Telemedicine technology applies especially to the cardiovascular sector. It provides the ability for doctors to remotely monitor cardiac implants.

This not only speeds up the diagnosis process, but it can also anticipate and prevent heart attacks by monitoring symptoms.

3-D Printing

3-D printers are revolutionizing many industries. The capabilities of 3-D printers are becoming more complex by the day.

They can create implants, prosthetics, medications – even organs. Bioprinting is an emerging cutting-edge technology that can print synthetic, functioning blood vessels, ovaries, skin cells, and organs.

Other Developments in Medical Technology

Every day it seems like there is a new technology in the medical field. One of the latest inventions is the Apple Series 4 watch.

The watch has a built-in heart monitor to keep track of rhythms. It’s a technology that has been proven to save lives by anticipating and preventing heart attacks and heart failure.

Another advancement in medical worth mentioning is CRISPR, a technology with the capability of editing and manipulating genes. It works by essentially identifying and removing infected DNA cell strands to treat diseases like cancer and HIV.

Developments have also been made in the maintenance and calibration space. These experts have found a way to optimize and accurately calibrate medical equipment to ensure complete accuracy and functionality of crucial equipment.

The Bottom Line

There is no end to what can be accomplished by technology, especially as it applies to medicine. The developments in medical technology make the future an exciting and promising time for both healthcare professionals and patients.

Keep an eye on this space to stay up to date on the latest innovations and technological advancements in the world of medicine.