Breast cancer patients in Harrogate could receive faster treatment decisions thanks to pioneering new AI technology introduced at Harrogate District Hospital.
Harrogate and District NHS Foundation Trust (HDFT) has become the first NHS Trust to introduce an artificial intelligence-enabled HER2 tissue scanning system for clinical use.
The new scanner, which has been funded by Harrogate Hospital & Community Charity (HHCC), will be used by the hospital's Histopathology Department to assess breast cancer tissue samples more quickly and efficiently.
More than £40,000 was raised towards the technology through the charity's 30th birthday campaign.
The scanner captures high-resolution digital images of breast cancer tissue samples before an AI-powered algorithm helps pathologists assess their HER2 status.
HER2 is a protein linked to the growth of some breast cancers, with testing helping clinicians determine whether patients are likely to benefit from targeted treatments.
The technology is expected to allow samples to be reviewed more quickly while maintaining expert clinical oversight throughout the process.
Receiving results sooner could allow patients to begin treatment plans more quickly while also reducing the anxiety of waiting for results.
Philippa Bleasdale, Histology Section Manager, said:
“It was wonderful to see the scanner and AI software being installed in the department after all the efforts of HHCC and the Histopathology team.
“This project has been a labour of love and will make a real difference for patients by delivering results more quickly and supporting faster treatment decisions.
“Whilst this technology will initially be used to improve the pathway for breast cancer patients, in the future it is hoped it can be used to assist with the interpretation of other biomarkers for different cancers, such as lung cancer.
“I would like to thank everyone who has worked on this campaign and to all our generous donors, who have made it possible.”
The Trust is already using AI technology in other areas to support clinicians, including helping to speed up fracture diagnoses and improve the efficiency and accuracy of chest X-rays.
Yvonne Campbell, Head of Charity at HDFT, said:
“We are delighted to be able to support the Histopathology Department with this incredible piece of diagnostic equipment enabling earlier diagnosis and onset of treatment for patients at Harrogate District Hospital.
“This has only been possible through the generosity of our donors and supporters, who got behind our 30th Birthday Campaign and helped us raise more than £40,000 for this groundbreaking technology.
“Our mission is to enhance healthcare for our patients, families and communities, being able to provide cutting edge technology closer to homes and improving the outcomes for those who access our services.
“We are incredibly grateful for the support we receive every day from patients, their families and the wider community. Without that support, projects like this would not be possible.”
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