Exo has recently advanced the capabilities of its Iris handheld ultrasound system by integrating new FDA-cleared artificial intelligence (AI) tools aimed at enhancing the diagnosis and management of cardiac and lung conditions. These tools, now available on the high-performance, pocket-sized device, promise to transform patient care by providing immediate diagnostic insights. Particularly beneficial for health systems and practitioners in rural or under-resourced areas, these AI enhancements simplify the process of image acquisition and interpretation, making sophisticated medical imaging more accessible and cost-effective. The introduction of AI into Exo Iris extends to several specific applications, such as the ability to quantify bladder volume, and now includes tools that assist in measuring cardiac ejection fraction and detecting lung structures and artifacts. These tools have been designed to support healthcare professionals in making informed decisions quickly, which is necessary for conditions like heart failure where timely intervention can alter outcomes.
Exo’s AI tools will have a big impact on healthcare delivery, particularly in point-of-care settings. With over 6.7 million Americans currently suffering from heart failure, there is a need for accessible and reliable diagnostic methods that can be deployed directly at the patient’s side. Exo’s AI applications, validated across diverse patient populations and health conditions, enable healthcare providers to perform important diagnostics without the need for high-end lab equipment. For example, the cardiac AI tool can quickly measure left ventricular ejection fraction, a key indicator of heart health, while the lung AI tool helps in identifying signs of pulmonary edema. These capabilities streamline the diagnostic process and reduce the dependency on specialized imaging technicians, decreasing the overall healthcare delivery costs and enabling more frequent and widespread use of ultrasound technology.
Innovation in ultrasound technology, as demonstrated by Exo, also includes the integration of Pulsed-Wave Doppler capabilities in the Iris system, enhancing the device’s utility in cardiac, abdominal, and vascular applications. This addition broadens the range of Exo’s diagnostic tools, allowing for more detailed examinations of blood flow and velocity, which are necessary for an in-depth assessment of various health conditions. The continuous expansion of FDA-approved AI functionalities within the Iris system shows Exo’s commitment to advancing medical imaging technology. By doubling the number of its FDA clearances by 2025, Exo plans to further enhance the capabilities of the Iris system, supporting a broader range of diagnostic needs and potentially transforming it into a must-have tool in modern healthcare practices.
Exo is allowing access to advanced medical imaging through initiatives like making its products available via a new e-commerce channel. This approach supports the acquisition of the latest medical technology by healthcare providers and allows the widespread adoption of AI-powered tools in routine clinical practice. By providing these tools in a user-friendly and cost-effective format, Exo aims to allow those with limited experience in point-of-care ultrasound (POCUS) to perform complex diagnostics. The availability of these tools online is complemented by Exo’s award-winning POCUS workflow software, Exo Works®, creating a medical imaging system that fits into the pocket of healthcare providers. Through these innovations, Exo addresses the immediate needs of healthcare professionals and contributes to the broader goal of improving patient outcomes and efficiency within healthcare systems.