ACS Classification Tool Adjusting Sampling Intervals
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Solution Overview
Problem
Current diagnostic protocols for acute coronary syndrome (ACS) face challenges such as overcrowding in emergency departments, misclassification due to incorrect interpretation of troponin results, and variability in implementation of high-sensitivity troponin assays, leading to inefficiencies and potential missed diagnoses.
Innovation Solution
A computer-implemented method for classifying patients with suspected ACS, which integrates the calculation of different blood drawing schemes, provides optimal time-points for subsequent blood draws, and offers correct interpretation of findings based on the actual protocol used, allowing for accurate classification and adherence to guidelines, thereby reducing unnecessary procedures and improving patient disposition.
Engineering Contradictions & Design Principles
Engineering Contradiction Analysis
1Speed
If fast protocols with re-testing at 1-2 hours are implemented, then diagnostic speed is improved, but misclassification rate increases due to incorrect interpretation of troponin results
Solution Approach 1:
The system implements automated feedback by comparing actual sampling intervals against protocol requirements and providing real-time alerts when deviations occur. This ensures that troponin results are interpreted with the correct timing context, preventing misclassification while maintaining fast protocol speeds.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual timing tracking and interpretation with an automated computer-implemented system that electronically records sampling times, calculates intervals, and applies appropriate interpretation algorithms. This eliminates human error in timing assessment while preserving rapid diagnostic throughput.
2Measurement precision
If multiple blood draws are performed according to protocol, then diagnostic accuracy is improved, but patient burden and resource consumption increase
Solution Approach 1:
The system applies partial action by performing blood draws and interpretations based on individual patient risk stratification. Low-risk patients may require only one or two draws with automated rule-out algorithms, while high-risk patients receive the full protocol. This reduces unnecessary blood draws for low-risk patients while maintaining accuracy for those who need it.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent dynamically adjusts the number of blood draws and timing intervals based on initial troponin values and risk factors. The system modifies sampling parameters (time points, number of draws) according to patient-specific parameters, reducing the quantity of blood draws for patients who can be safely ruled out earlier while maintaining diagnostic accuracy for those requiring full evaluation.
3Ease of operation
If sampling intervals are not precisely controlled, then ease of operation is improved, but measurement precision deteriorates due to incorrect troponin interpretation
Solution Approach 1:
The system provides self-service by automatically calculating sampling intervals, determining appropriate interpretation algorithms, and generating disposition recommendations without requiring manual timing tracking by staff. The electronic system self-monitors compliance and provides real-time guidance, making precise interval control as easy as data entry while maintaining high measurement precision.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent replaces manual timing and calculation mechanisms with automated electronic systems that precisely track sampling intervals and apply appropriate interpretation algorithms. This substitution maintains measurement precision while dramatically improving ease of operation, as the system handles all complex timing and calculation tasks automatically.
4Productivity
If fast protocols are implemented without validation, then productivity is improved, but reliability decreases due to missed myocardial infarctions
Solution Approach 1:
The system performs preliminary risk stratification and protocol validation before implementing fast protocols. It pre-identifies patients who are appropriate candidates for accelerated pathways based on initial assessment, and pre-validates that sampling intervals and interpretation algorithms are correctly configured. This preliminary preparation ensures high productivity while preventing missed diagnoses through proper patient selection and protocol verification.
Solution Approach 2:
The patent implements multiple feedback mechanisms including automated alerts for protocol deviations, validation checks before disposition decisions, and continuous monitoring of diagnostic accuracy. These feedback loops ensure that fast protocols are applied only when appropriate and that any potential missed diagnoses are immediately identified and corrected, maintaining both high productivity and reliability.
Data Source
AI summary
The present invention relates to methods for assessing subjects presenting with suspected acute coronary syndrome. Specifically, the present invention relates to methods for classifying a patient with suspected acute coronary syndrome. The methods of the present invention may be carried out as computer-implemented methods.