Guest Post: The Power of AI in Veterinary Medicine

by Sommer Aweidah | Jan 17, 2025 | AI Software, Customer Testimonial

At Avoca Drive Animal Hospital, the integration of Vetology’s AI tools with their Practice Management Software has been a collaborative effort focused on supporting veterinary teams and improving clinical efficiency. This partnership has helped streamline workflows, reduce daily workload, and free up valuable time for patient care. By working closely with Vetology’s team, Avoca Drive has created a more seamless diagnostic process—enhancing clinical confidence and decision-making when it matters most. In this article, you’ll learn how thoughtful AI integration and strong ongoing support have made a measurable impact in a busy veterinary practice. In this article you will learn how:

AI in veterinary medicine integrates directly into practice management software.
Vetology’s AI reduces manual tasks, giving vets more time for patient care.
AI reports support clinical judgment, enhancing diagnostic confidence.
In emergencies, AI in veterinary medicine helps vets make faster more informed decisions.
Combining AI with clinical expertise leads to better outcomes and a higher standard of veterinary care.

The Power of AI in Veterinary Imaging:

Revolutionizing Diagnosis and Treatment

Written by: Dr Elizabeth O’Connor BVSc, FFCP, Veterinarian, CEO, Author

Avoca Drive Animal Hospital

In the ever-evolving field of veterinary medicine, technology plays a crucial role in improving patient care. At our veterinary hospital, we have embraced AI technology—specifically Vetology—for imaging, and the benefits have been remarkable. Let’s explore how this innovative tool has transformed our diagnostic processes and enhanced treatment decisions, ultimately leading to better outcomes for our furry patients.

Meet the team at Avoca Drive Animal Hospital, a Fear Free certified Practice.

Streamlining Workflow for Efficiency

From the moment we integrated Vetology into our practice, we focused on making the transition as seamless as possible. Collaborating with our Daysmart software team, we completed the integration within just a couple of days. This investment in time and effort has proven invaluable.

Now, AI-generated reports flow directly into our practice management software, as well as the Vetology workstation platform. This integration eliminates the cumbersome process of manually uploading and downloading files, which previously consumed precious time that our team needed to dedicate to patients and clients. By streamlining our workflow, we can focus more on providing exceptional care.

Enhanced Diagnostic Confidence

Once AI results are incorporated into a patient’s file, our veterinarians leverage this data alongside their expertise. Each case prompts our team to critically analyze the findings:

“Does this make sense given the patient’s history, signalment, and other information that the AI doesn’t have?”

With a comprehensive view that includes history, blood results, and AI insights, our veterinarians gain a clearer understanding of the patient’s condition. This is especially crucial in urgent cases, such as those involving abdominal pain or suspected gastrointestinal issues.

The added assurance that AI provides helps our team confirm that nothing has been overlooked, reducing stress during busy times when multiple cases demand attention.

Making Timely Decisions for Critical Care

When our vets have a clear plan of action, informed by both their clinical judgment and AI reports, we are much better positioned to act swiftly. In urgent situations, this can mean the difference between life and death for seriously ill patients. Rather than waiting for specialist opinions or navigating uncertainties, we can initiate the necessary procedures immediately.

This rapid response allows us to explain diagnoses and obtain consent from pet owners much more efficiently. When every second counts, having reliable AI insights empowers our team to make informed decisions and provide the timely care that pets need.

Conclusion: A New Era in Veterinary Medicine

The integration of AI technology in our veterinary hospital has transformed the way we approach diagnostics and treatment. By streamlining our processes, enhancing diagnostic confidence, and facilitating timely decision-making, we are better equipped to provide exceptional care for our patients.

As we continue to embrace innovative technologies like Vetology, we remain committed to improving the health and well-being of the pets we serve. The future of veterinary medicine is bright, and we are excited to lead the way in providing the highest standard of care.

Fresh and Refreshed Veterinary AI Canine Abdomen Classifiers Now Out

by Sommer Aweidah | Dec 12, 2024 | AI Software

The latest update to Vetology’s AI in veterinary radiology enhances its Canine Abdomen Virtual AI Radiology Reports with expanded condition detection, and a refined report format to better support clinical workflows. In this article we’ll go over how:

Our AI classifiers were retrained and refreshed using client feedback and validated with gold-standard datasets.
Regular updates improve sensitivity, specificity, and real-world diagnostic reliability.
New classifiers expand the AI’s ability to detect a wider range of abdominal conditions.
Reports now feature clearer conclusions, mirroring board-certified radiologist report formatting.
Vetology AI streamlines workflows, offering faster, more reliable diagnostic support.

Screening for Canine Abdomen Conditions Just Got Better with our New and Updated Classifiers

At Vetology, we’re constantly pushing the boundaries of veterinary AI to support your diagnostic needs. That’s why we’re excited to announce the latest update to our Canine Abdomen Virtual AI Radiology Reports!

This release features new and improved classifiers, a combination of the feedback from our clients on our existing canine abdomen classifiers, paired with an expanded range of conditions. Whether you’re an existing client or you’re curious about what Vetology AI can offer, these updates represent a leap forward in diagnostic support for your practice.

Outline drawing of a dog with the abdomen highlighted

What's New?

Improved Performance on Existing Classifiers

Our current canine abdomen classifiers have undergone rigorous retraining and validation to enhance their accuracy. Here’s how we’ve made them better:

User Feedback in Action: Direct input through our simple feedback system has been instrumental in guiding our efforts. Coupled with expanded datasets, this process has driven measurable improvements in our AI’s performance.
“Golden Set” Validation: Each classifier is tested against a gold-standard dataset reviewed by radiologists to ensure accuracy. While our AI is designed to handle real-world variability, clear and well-positioned radiographs consistently yield the best results.
Sensitivity and Specificity: We use a confusion matrix to evaluate classifier performance and only release updates that meet our strict internal standards for reliability and precision.

Expanded Capabilities = More Value

Our newly updated classifiers significantly broaden the range of conditions our AI can identify. With more actionable insights in each report, you can expect even greater support in your diagnostic workflow.

Refined Report Style

In addition to improved classifiers, we’ve updated the style of our reports to align with the clarity and structure you’ve seen in our recent feline abdomen release. These enhancements provide clearer conclusions and actionable recommendations in a format similar to a board-certified radiologist’s report.

Summary of the conditions and disease processes (classifiers) included in our Canine Abdomen Automated AI Radiology Reports:

Vetology’s AI classifiers are thoughtfully curated to assist veterinarians in addressing complex and frequently encountered conditions requiring radiologist expertise.

The AI-driven screening results in our Virtual AI radiologist report focus on identifying and characterizing diseases that challenge clinical assessment.

Vetology AI - Learn More

Liver: Hepatomegaly, hepatic mass, microhepatia.
Spleen: Splenomegaly, splenic mass.
Kidneys: Right kidney size, right nephroliths, left kidney size, left nephroliths.
Gastrointestinal Tract: Mineral/metal gastric material, gastric contents, pyloric/gastric outflow tract obstruction, gastric rugal folds, small intestine distension (mechanical ileus), Small intestine contents, mineral/metal small intestine material, colon diffuse distension, colon contents, spastic colon wall.
Urogenital: Urocystoliths/Urethroliths, Mineralized fetal skeletons/pregnancy.
Peritoneum: Decreased serosal detail.

Effortless Updates, Seamless Workflow

Vetology AI is designed to save you time while supporting better patient outcomes. By incorporating the latest advancements in machine learning and listening to your feedback, we’re making diagnostic support more reliable and comprehensive than ever.

If you’re not already a Vetology client, now is the perfect time to explore how our AI and teleradiology solutions can transform your practice.

Schedule Your Demo Today!

Want to see how Vetology AI can alter your diagnostic workflow? Contact us today for a demo of our Virtual AI Radiology Reports and teleradiology services.

We encourage you to share this update with your team and colleagues and join us in advancing veterinary diagnostics together.

Good Machine Learning Practices (GMLP) Statement for Vetology’s AI X-ray Screening Tool

by Sommer Aweidah | Dec 3, 2024 | AI Software, reviews2

Good Machine Learning Practices (GMLP) Statement

Vetology is committed to advancing veterinary medicine through innovative technologies. Our AI-powered tool for screening canine and feline X-rays exemplifies our dedication to enhancing diagnostic accuracy and efficiency. This statement outlines our adherence to Good Machine Learning Practices (GMLP) across the development, deployment, and maintenance of our AI model.

US FDA Related Links:

graphic suggesting how the system is trained.

A. Explanation of AI Model Development

Our AI model is developed using a rigorous and systematic process to ensure reliability and clinical relevance.

Data Collection and Preprocessing: We aggregate a diverse dataset of anonymized canine and feline X-rays from various sources to capture a wide range of anatomical variations and pathological conditions. Data is de-identified in compliance with privacy regulations.
Annotation and Labeling: Experienced veterinary radiologists annotate the images, providing high-quality labels that serve as ground truth for training. This ensures that the model learns from expert interpretations.
Model Architecture: We employ state-of-the-art deep learning architectures optimized for image analysis, such as convolutional neural networks (CNNs), to effectively process and interpret radiographic images.
Training Process: The model is trained using supervised learning techniques with hyperparameter tuning to optimize performance metrics like accuracy, sensitivity, and specificity.
Bias Mitigation: We actively identify and mitigate potential biases by ensuring balanced representation across species, breeds, ages, and pathological conditions in the training dataset.

B. Explanation of AI Model Pre-release Assurance of Safety and Effectiveness

Before releasing the AI tool, we conduct comprehensive evaluations to ensure it meets safety and efficacy standards.

Validation Studies: The model undergoes rigorous validation using separate datasets not seen during training to assess its generalizability and robustness.
Performance Metrics: We evaluate key performance indicators, including accuracy, sensitivity, specificity, and area under the ROC curve (AUC), to quantify the model’s diagnostic capabilities.
Clinical Testing: Pilot studies are conducted in clinical settings where veterinary professionals use the tool in real-world scenarios to provide feedback on usability and effectiveness.
Regulatory Compliance: We ensure that our AI tool complies with FDA guidelines for Good Machine Learning Practices.
Risk Assessment: A thorough risk analysis is performed to identify potential failure modes, and appropriate safeguards are implemented to mitigate any identified risks.

C. Explanation of AI Production Model Deployment and Ongoing Monitoring

Upon deployment, we maintain vigilant oversight of the AI tool’s performance and impact.

Integration with Existing Systems: The AI tool is seamlessly integrated into veterinary workflows, ensuring minimal disruption and maximal utility.
User Training and Support: We provide comprehensive training materials and support services to help veterinary professionals effectively utilize the tool.
Performance Monitoring: Continuous monitoring systems are in place to track the model’s performance in real-time, detecting any deviations from expected outcomes.
Feedback Mechanisms: We encourage and facilitate user feedback to identify any issues or areas for improvement, fostering a collaborative environment for refinement.
Data Security: Robust security protocols protect sensitive data during transmission and storage, complying with industry standards for data protection.
- Our Privacy Policy

D. Explanation of AI Device Ongoing Re-training, Modifications, and Versioning

We recognize the importance of keeping the AI model current with evolving medical knowledge and practices.

Periodic Re-training: The model is periodically retrained with new data to incorporate the latest findings and address any drift in performance.
Change Management: Any modifications to the model undergo a structured change management process, including re-validation and documentation.
Version Control: We maintain strict version control, documenting changes between versions and ensuring traceability of updates.
Regulatory Updates: Updates to the model are evaluated for regulatory impact, and we ensure continued compliance with applicable regulations.
Transparency: Users are informed of significant updates or changes to the AI tool, including improvements in performance or functionality.

Conclusion

Vetology is dedicated to providing safe, effective, and reliable AI solutions for veterinary radiology. Through adherence to Good Machine Learning Practices, we strive to enhance diagnostic capabilities while maintaining the highest standards of quality and ethics.

New Release: Features of our AI-Radiology Reports for the Feline Abdomen

by Sommer Aweidah | Oct 2, 2024 | AI Software

We’re excited to introduce our newest addition to the Vetology suite:

This new release takes our AI Radiology Reports to the next level by automating the analysis of feline abdominal radiographs.

Introducing Enhanced AI-driven Conclusions

This enhancement enables our AI to deliver richer, more detailed conclusions in the familiar style of a boarded radiologist’s report, offering actionable insights on screening results. As part of our feline abdomen release, AI report conclusions will include suggested next steps and differential diagnoses when appropriate, providing additional context to the report’s findings.

At Vetology, our AI is continuously evolving. Your feedback — both in-app and in-person — plays a vital role in shaping regular updates and improvements.

In the coming months, you can expect to see matching updates and richer conclusions in our canine abdomen reports.

Summary of the conditions and disease processes (classifiers) included in our Feline Abdomen Automated AI Radiology Reports:

illustration of cat featuring a call out on the feline abdomen

Liver: Hepatomegaly, Hepatic Masses

Spleen: Splenomegaly

Kidneys: Renomegaly (L + R), Nephroliths (L + R)

Urogenital: Urocystoliths, Urethroliths, Mineralized Fetal Skeletons (signs of pregnancy)

Gastrointestinal Tract: Mineral/metal Gastric Material, Gastric Rugal Folds, Megacolon

Peritoneum: Decreased Serosal Detail

Move through the diagnostic pathway more swiftly, and Free up valuable time to spend with patients and owners

By offering more contextual observations and fast screening results, our AI acts as a second set of eyes to confirm your own findings and boost your confidence in diagnostic and treatment planning for your patients.

Imagine This:

You’ve just uploaded a well-exposed, well-positioned feline abdominal radiograph. Before you even move on to your next task, the AI screening report is ready—delivered to you within minutes.

The Best Part?

You didn’t need to change a thing. No extra steps, no software updates. The report appears seamlessly in the platform, linked to your case radiographs, just like all your other Vetology reports.

This Isn’t Science Fiction!

Feline Abdomen AI Radiology Reports are available to all Vetology AI subscribers now! Share the good news (and this email) with your medical team. Log in to Vetology.net below, and see it in action with your first feline abdomen radiograph!

Questions, Training, Demos + More

Contact Us

PODCAST – AI-Driven Teleradiology

by Sommer Aweidah | Sep 19, 2024 | AI Software, Podcasts, reviews2

Join the clever minds behind the Veterinary Innovation Podcast – Shawn Wilkie, CEO of Talkatoo, and Dr. Ivan Zak, CEO of Veterinary Integration Solutions – as they sit down with our own Dr. Seth Wallack, DACVR, founder and CEO of Vetology to explore the integration of artificial intelligence and teleconsulting in radiology.

In this episode, they discuss AI-driven teleradiology, which helps veterinarians receive faster preliminary reports, streamlines decision-making, and boosts radiologists’ efficiency.

Dr. Wallack highlights that Vetology’s AI assists by providing initial insights and supporting veterinarians without replacing their clinical judgment or changing existing workflows. Veterinarians can use these AI-generated reports to make informed treatment decisions or request further consultation from a radiologist.

Topics Covered in the Conversation

AI-Enhanced Teleradiology
Quality Control and Workflow Integration
Upcoming Innovations

Read the Full Article on Today's Veterinary Business

This article was originally published on October 1, 2022

Artificial Intelligence in Veterinary Practices: Workflows and More

by Sommer Aweidah | Jul 23, 2024 | AI Software

Q&A: Artificial Intelligence

How AI Can Help Practices of All Kinds

Written by Sarah McNeal

Artificial intelligence seems new, because of ChatGPT. And by now, many people have experimented with it either for generating images or illustrations, or to help with writing prompts. But AI has been used in radiology for a while. Patterson Teleradiology powered by Vetology AI is built on thousands of cases, with AI reports returned in under five minutes. It’s ideal for many types of practices to confirm suspicions, act as a second opinion or illustrate for clients what issue their pet is facing. Each case submitted comes with a full report that can be emailed or printed for transparency with clients.

Insight asked Staci Thorne, CVT about how artificial intelligence can help today’s busy practices. Thorne is a certified vet tech with more than 20 years of experience, including emergency clinics.

Can AI Be Trusted?

Short answer, yes!

Longer answer: In the same way that you would trust your CBC or urine sediment analyzer to aid you in your diagnostic process, AI in radiology can be trusted as a useful tool to help confirm your diagnosis. AI is all about data, and as we continue to feed it more and more information, its uses and capabilities become sharper and stronger. The software’s machine learning algorithms have been exposed to thousands and thousands of radiographs over many years and all those data points have helped build the neural networks that make those platforms so powerful.

Q: In which types of clinics does it work best and why?
Vetology has a use case in many clinical settings that I can think of:

Are you an ER that needs some diagnostic answers immediately?
Use AI to confirm that your patient needs treatment within minutes.
Are you a general practice that wants to reduce the workload and simplify workflow?
AI can review every radiograph and determine which ones need to be sent for further evaluation, freeing up your time to focus on other things.
Are you a low-cost practice with high standard of care?
Use AI to evaluate all your radiographs and receive a shareable report back that enhances your diagnostic value and reserves teleradiology costs for those cases that truly need it.
Are you a new grad looking for that extra bit of reassurance for difficult-to-read cases?
Confirm your suspicions with AI.

Click to Read the Full Article

Originally published in:
Insight Companion Animal Edition, July 2024, Patterson Veterinary