Precision of AI-Based Cardiac Ultrasound for LVEF in the Elderly

Heart failure (HF) is common in older adults, especially those over 65. It is a leading cause of hospitalization and has high mortality rates. Diagnosing HF in elderly patients can be challenging due to atypical symptoms and multiple other health issues. Echocardiography, an ultrasound of the heart, is crucial for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning. One problem in geriatric care is the difficulty of accessing echocardiography due to high demand and limited specialized doctors. Recent advancements show that AI-assisted portable ultrasound devices can reliably measure heart function, producing results comparable to traditional methods. This study aims to evaluate the accuracy and relevance of AI-assisted echocardiography (AutoEF-AI) in elderly patients. It also assesses whether geriatricians, even without specialized training, can capture quality images for AI analysis. In simple terms, this study investigates if portable ultrasound devices with AI can provide precise heart function diagnostics, making it easier for older adults with heart failure to get the care they need, even without specialists.