GE Healthcare, Fujitsu Australia, Macquarie University and Macquarie Medical Imaging have announced a new research collaboration to diagnose and monitor brain aneurysms faster and more efficiently using artificial intelligence (AI).
Brain aneurysms are caused by a weakness in the wall of a brain artery and are present in between two and eight percent of adults Rupture of an aneurysm causes brain hemorrhage in 85 percent of cases, leading to death in 30-40 percent of people and 20 percent permanent disability in those who survive.
As a part of the project, Fujitsu will apply AI methods to images of the brain generated by GE’s Revolution CT scanner, and use a specifically-trained algorithm to identify abnormalities and aneurysms. Outcomes from the project are anticipated to include the development and validation of an AI algorithm capable of highlighting blood vessels within the circle of Willis, an arterial ring sited at the base of the brain, that can have one or more aneurysms.
The technology will also allow the tracking of identified aneurysms over time, providing radiologists with a valuable diagnostic support tool and patients with greater peace of mind that known aneurysms are being effectively monitored over the long term.
A second element to the project will include a planning tool for surgical stent intervention. This tool will use fluid dynamic modelling to predict the risk of aneurysm rupture.
Mike Foster, CEO of Fujitsu Australia and New Zealand, said: “We are pleased to be part of this important ‘co-creation’ initiative that leverages the strengths of each of our partners, as well as Fujitsu’s experience in AI to have a positive impact on peoples’ lives. AI in particular has the capability to make our daily lives more comfortable and contribute to solving difficult problems such as detecting serious medical issues early and allowing more timely treatment intervention. This is an excellent demonstration of Fujitsu’s commitment to creating human-centric innovation together with our customers and partners to build a trusted future where everyone can feel safe.”
Matt Tucker, CEO GE Healthcare Australia & New Zealand, commented, “As the consequences of brain aneurysm rupture are often fatal, effective and expedient detection is crucial. Unfortunately screening and monitoring takes time and specialist expertise not afforded by every radiology practice. The application of AI can give doctors better insights more quickly and produce fewer variable results.”
Professor John Magnussen, Diagnostic and Interventional Radiologist at Macquarie Medical Imaging, said, “This is an amazing opportunity to be able to address the problem of the rapid and accurate diagnosis of brain aneurysms. Even in ideal circumstances, detecting brain aneurysms is time and expertise intensive and missed aneurysms can have terrible outcomes. By creating an AI assistant to automatically flag potential aneurysms and allow for accurate follow-up, we can make a huge difference to patient care.”