Medical ArticlesTestingCardiologyHeart Failure

New AI Stethoscope Screening Now Available

We have introduced a short, non-invasive stethoscope-based screening test that can check for possible valvular heart disease and signs of heart failure in about one minute. If needed, we follow up with echocardiography, blood tests and other standard examinations.

About this translation This English version is provided for convenience. If any wording differs from the Japanese version, the Japanese version applies.

Our clinic has introduced a new AI-assisted stethoscope screening test that analyzes heart sounds in a short examination.

Valvular heart disease has traditionally been assessed mainly by echocardiography, and heart failure is often evaluated with blood tests such as BNP. This stethoscope-based test can check for possible valvular disease and signs related to heart failure in about one minute by recording heart sounds from the chest.

A quick check for signs of valvular disease and heart failure

The examination is painless and does not require a blood draw. We record heart sounds in the consultation room and use the analysis as one part of deciding whether further testing is needed.

  • Short screening for possible valvular heart disease
  • Helps identify patients who may need further heart failure assessment, including BNP testing
  • A useful first step for shortness of breath, swelling, palpitations or a heart murmur found at checkup

This test does not replace a full diagnosis

The stethoscope test is a screening tool. It does not replace echocardiography or blood tests when a more detailed assessment is needed. If the result suggests an abnormality, we evaluate the patient using standard tests such as echocardiography, ECG, chest X-ray and blood tests including BNP.

Please ask us if you have these concerns

  • Shortness of breath when climbing stairs or walking uphill
  • Leg swelling or unexplained weight gain
  • Palpitations or chest discomfort
  • A heart murmur noted during a checkup or consultation
  • You are worried about valvular disease or heart failure and want an easy first check

Early detection can make it easier to connect patients with the right examination and treatment. Please ask during a regular consultation if you have symptoms or concerns.