Integrating Al Algorithms into the Clinical Workflow

Integration of artificial intelligence (AI) applications within clinical workflows is an important step for leveraging developed AI algorithms. In this report, generalizable components for deploying AI systems into clinical practice are described that were implemented in a clinical pilot study using lymphoscintigraphy examinations as a prospective use case (July 1, 2019-October 31, 2020). Deployment of the AI algorithm consisted of seven software components, as follows: (a) image delivery, (b) quality control, (c) a results database, (d) results processing, (e) results presentation and delivery, (f) error correction, and (g) a dashboard for performance monitoring. A total of 14 users used the system (faculty radiologists and trainees) to assess the degree of satisfaction with the components and overall workflow. Analyses included the assessment of the number of examinations processed, error rates, and corrections. The AI system processed 1748 lymphoscintigraphy examinations. The system enabled radiologists to correct 146 AI results, generating real-time corrections to the radiology report. All AI results and corrections were successfully stored in a database for downstream use by the various integration components. A dashboard allowed monitoring of the AI system performance in real time. All 14 survey respondents somewhat agreed or strongly agreed that the AI system was well integrated into the clinical workflow. In all, a framework of processes and components for integrating AI algorithms into clinical workflows was developed. The implementation described could be helpful for assessing and monitoring AI performance in clinical practice. (C) RSNA, 2021.

Automated summary

The study describes generalizable components for integrating AI systems into clinical workflows, including deployment, usage assessment, and real-time performance monitoring. Results showed that the AI system successfully processed a large number of examinations and allowed radiologists to make real-time corrections to the results. Surveys indicated that the majority of users were satisfied with the integration of the AI system into the clinical workflow.