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World-First Artificial Intelligence Tool Developed in Melbourne Could Save Limbs of Diabetics

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‘It’s a huge thing to be able to prevent limb loss.’

Summary

Researchers in Melbourne have developed a handheld AI-powered camera that analyzes heat patterns and skin textures to predict whether diabetic foot ulcers will heal. While this represents a significant advancement in specialized clinical AI application, it focuses on narrow diagnostic medical capabilities rather than general-purpose frontier models. The tool's primary contribution lies in improving healthcare outcomes and accessibility in remote Australian regions, but it does not directly address existential or catastrophic AI risks. Its relevance to AI governance is limited to sector-specific medical device regulation and TGA approval frameworks.

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A world-first AI tool made in Melbourne could help save the limbs of people living with diabetes.Researchers have developed a handheld camera that gives doctors better intelligence to intervene before it’s too late.WATCH THE VIDEO ABOVE: World-first AI camera could prevent diabetic amputationsKnow the news with the 7NEWS app: Download today ArrowFor thousands of Australians with diabetes, a small wound can become life-changing. Every year, diabetic foot ulcers lead to infection, hospitalisation and, in many cases, amputation.Like 56-year-old father-of-two George Diamataris, who lost his leg after an 18-month struggle with an infected sore.“Before and during the amputation, I thought, you know, what am I going to be able to do afterwards?” he said.<img src="https://images.7news.com.au/publication/C-22662001/6063448621a73228ca2ebc4cffb019985aad6635.jpg?imwidth=650&impolicy=sevennews_v2" alt="George Diamataris." class="css-tl044d-StyledNoScriptImage-StyledImage eu9mom10" />George Diamataris. Credit: 7NEWSNow, Australian researchers have developed a breakthrough technology able to predict from the very first appointment whether a wound is likely to heal.It analyses heat patterns and skin textures invisible to the human eye, helping doctors identify high-risk patients and treat them before irreversible damage is done.“Limb amputation can reduce a person’s life expectancy for up to 19 years. It has an impact on themselves, on their family. It’s a huge thing to be able to prevent limb loss,” Professor Elif Ekinci from the University of Melbourne said.Be the first to know: Add 7NEWS as your preferred news source on GoogleThe technology is currently being tested in clinics across Victoria. Researchers are now seeking TGA approval to make the technology global.“In many parts of the world, this technology is going to be potentially revolutionary,” Professor Dinesh Kumar from RMIT University said.<img src="https://images.7news.com.au/publication/C-22662001/317f15a096657075d7cf659fc088152309d1ceea.jpg?imwidth=650&impolicy=sevennews_v2" alt="The technology analyses heat patterns." class="css-tl044d-StyledNoScriptImage-StyledImage eu9mom10" />The technology analyses heat patterns. Credit: 7NEWSExperts say this could be especially valuable in remote areas, where specialist care may be hundreds of kilometres away and every day counts.“This particular device will be something which anyone, any clinician without any training can use quickly without any wet labs,” RMIT University Professor Kumar said.Stream free on