uSINE

​

KK Women's and Children's Hospital (KKH) has introduced the world's first artificial intelligence-powered ultrasound guided automated spinal landmark identification system, named uSINE®, to enhance the success of spinal anaesthesia during childbirth. This innovative system has achieved a 92% success rate for first-attempt spinal anaesthesia in women of healthy weight and 82% in obese women, significantly higher than the conventional manual method, which has success rates of 70% and 43% respectively. 

The system utilizes AI and ultrasound imaging to accurately identify spinal landmarks, improving the precision of needle insertion and reducing complications. Clinical trials for uSINE® began in 2017, and its implementation in clinical practice started in May 2023. KKH plans to expand the use of uSINE® to other healthcare institutions in Singapore and conduct trials internationally. This advancement is particularly beneficial for women with challenging spinal anatomy, especially given the rising obesity rates in pregnancy in Singapore. 

Additional Links: 

• KKH implements novel system for the precise delivery of spinal anaesthesia during childbirth - KK Women's and Children's Hospital 

• AI-powered technology boosts accuracy during spinal anaesthesia - SingHealth 

• uSINE Technology | Empowering Medical Professionals with AI 
  

• How it works: https://youtu.be/6Ex0JZbeKCQ