Medtronic and Viz.ai Partner to Improve Large Vessel Occlusion (LVO) Detection and Triage
The producer of a clot-retrieving revascularization device (Solitaire Platinum; Medtronic Minneapolis, MN) for acute treatment of acute ischemic stroke (AIS) caused by large vessel occlusion (LVO) will be distributing LVO detection software (LVO Viz; Viz.ai, San Francisco, CA). The companies have announced this partnership as part of a campaign to accelerate adoption of Viz.ai’s new technology, which helps synchronize stroke care and decrease time to treatment, potentially improving outcomes.
The LVO detection software connects to hospital CT scanners and uses artificial intelligence and deep learning to identify suspected LVO. If suspected LVO is identified, the software sends programmed digital alerts to members of the stroke care team within minutes. The CT images are sent with the alert to stroke team members’ phones, allowing them to view and assess any CT flagged by the software as a potential LVO.
Dr. Elad Levy, chairman in the Department of Neurosurgery with the University at Buffalo's Jacobs School of Medicine and Biomedical Sciences and medical director of Neuroendovascular Services at Gates Vascular Institute, said, “The combination of artificial-intelligence powered alerts, mobile image viewing, and HIPAA compliant communication facilitates synchronization of stroke care with great potential to impactfully reduce door-to-needle time and help an increased number of patients.”
“Medtronic is an innovative company focused on therapies that extend life and restore health,” said Dr. Chris Mansi, neurosurgeon, cofounder and chief executive officer of Viz.ai. “As the largest medical device company in the world, Medtronic is an ideal partner to help physicians access Viz.ai’s cutting-edge technology to ensure as many patients get the care they need as quickly as possible.”
This software was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in early 2018, making it the first-ever computer-aided triage and notification software to be FDA-approved.