Mount Sinai Rolls out AI-enabled Ultrasounds to Detect Congenital Heart Defects

The use of the AI tool led to improved detection of major congenital heart defects in more than 97% of cases, with an 18% reduction in scan reading time and a 19% increase in confidence scores.

New York-based Mount Sinai Health System has started implementing AI-assisted software in fetal ultrasound examinations to help improve early detection of congenital heart defects.

The initiative leverages the BrightHeart AI software tool, designed to analyze standard fetal ultrasound images and assist clinicians in assessing the fetal heart.

The adoption of this tool is expected to improve workflow efficiency, standardize care, and drive earlier detection of one of the most common birth abnormalities.

The Carnegie Imaging for Women, a Mount Sinai-affiliated OB-GYN imaging facility, became the first center in New York City to adopt the BrightHeart AI software.

In its pilot evaluation conducted at Mount Sinai West, clinicians reviewed 200 de-identified fetal ultrasound exams taken between 18 and 24 weeks of pregnancy.

Further, fourteen obstetric and imaging specialists participated in the assessment, interpreting the studies both with and without the use of AI support.

Reportedly, the use of the AI tool led to improved detection of major congenital heart defects in more than 97% of cases, with an 18% reduction in scan reading time and a 19% increase in confidence scores.

Highlighting the significance of the AI tool, Jennifer Lam-Rachlin, MD, corresponding author and Assistant Clinical Professor of Obstetrics, Gynecology, and Reproductive Science at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, said, “AI assistance in prenatal diagnosis offers not only improved detection, but has the potential to offer significant improvement in workflow and efficiency benefits. We, as clinicians, should embrace innovation and technology that is available in order to maximize quality patient care. This technology allows for 'leveling' of the field of prenatal diagnosis to offer close to expert-level review of fetal ultrasounds, particularly in centers or geographical locations without fetal heart experts.”

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