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Sun L, Yu J, Yao J, Cao Y, Sun N, Chen K, Lin Y, Ji C, Zhang J, Ling C, Yang Z, Pan Q, Yang R, Yang X, Ni D, Yin L, Deng X. A novel artificial intelligence model for measuring fetal intracranial markers during the first trimester based on two-dimensional ultrasound image. Int J Gynaecol Obstet 2024. [PMID: 38944698 DOI: 10.1002/ijgo.15762] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/27/2023] [Revised: 05/30/2024] [Accepted: 06/17/2024] [Indexed: 07/01/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To establish reference ranges of fetal intracranial markers during the first trimester and develop the first novel artificial intelligence (AI) model to measure key markers automatically. METHODS This retrospective study used two-dimensional (2D) ultrasound images from 4233 singleton normal fetuses scanned at 11+0-13+6 weeks of gestation at the Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University from January 2018 to July 2022. We analyzed 10 key markers in three important planes of the fetal head. Based on these, reference ranges of 10 fetal intracranial markers were established and an AI model was developed for automated marker measurement. AI and manual measurements were compared to evaluate differences, correlations, consistency, and time consumption based on mean error, Pearson correlation analysis, intraclass correlation coefficients (ICCs), and average measurement time. RESULTS The results of AI and manual methods had strong consistency and correlation (all ICC values >0.75, all r values >0.75, and all P values <0.001). The average absolute error of both only ranged from 0.124 to 0.178 mm. AI achieved a 100% detection rate for abnormal cases. Additionally, the average measurement time of AI was only 0.49 s, which was more than 65 times faster than the manual measurement method. CONCLUSION The present study first established the normal standard reference ranges of fetal intracranial markers based on a large Chinese population data set. Furthermore, the proposed AI model demonstrated its capability to measure multiple fetal intracranial markers automatically, serving as a highly effective tool to streamline sonographer tasks and mitigate manual measurement errors, which can be generalized to first-trimester scanning.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lingling Sun
- Center for Medical Ultrasound, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Junxuan Yu
- National-Regional Key Technology Engineering Laboratory for Medical Ultrasound, School of Biomedical Engineering, Health Science Center, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Jiezhi Yao
- National-Regional Key Technology Engineering Laboratory for Medical Ultrasound, School of Biomedical Engineering, Health Science Center, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Yan Cao
- Shenzhen RayShape Medical Technology Co., Ltd, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Naimin Sun
- Center for Medical Ultrasound, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Keqi Chen
- Center for Medical Ultrasound, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Yujia Lin
- National-Regional Key Technology Engineering Laboratory for Medical Ultrasound, School of Biomedical Engineering, Health Science Center, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Chunya Ji
- Center for Medical Ultrasound, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Jun Zhang
- Center for Medical Ultrasound, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Chen Ling
- Center for Medical Ultrasound, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Zhong Yang
- Center for Medical Ultrasound, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Qi Pan
- Center for Medical Ultrasound, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Ronghao Yang
- National-Regional Key Technology Engineering Laboratory for Medical Ultrasound, School of Biomedical Engineering, Health Science Center, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Xin Yang
- National-Regional Key Technology Engineering Laboratory for Medical Ultrasound, School of Biomedical Engineering, Health Science Center, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Dong Ni
- National-Regional Key Technology Engineering Laboratory for Medical Ultrasound, School of Biomedical Engineering, Health Science Center, Shenzhen University, Shenzhen, Guangdong, China
| | - Linliang Yin
- Center for Medical Ultrasound, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
| | - Xuedong Deng
- Center for Medical Ultrasound, The Affiliated Suzhou Hospital of Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou Municipal Hospital, Gusu School, Nanjing Medical University, Suzhou, Jiangsu, China
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Yousefpour Shahrivar R, Karami F, Karami E. Enhancing Fetal Anomaly Detection in Ultrasonography Images: A Review of Machine Learning-Based Approaches. Biomimetics (Basel) 2023; 8:519. [PMID: 37999160 PMCID: PMC10669151 DOI: 10.3390/biomimetics8070519] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/29/2023] [Revised: 10/05/2023] [Accepted: 10/26/2023] [Indexed: 11/25/2023] Open
Abstract
Fetal development is a critical phase in prenatal care, demanding the timely identification of anomalies in ultrasound images to safeguard the well-being of both the unborn child and the mother. Medical imaging has played a pivotal role in detecting fetal abnormalities and malformations. However, despite significant advances in ultrasound technology, the accurate identification of irregularities in prenatal images continues to pose considerable challenges, often necessitating substantial time and expertise from medical professionals. In this review, we go through recent developments in machine learning (ML) methods applied to fetal ultrasound images. Specifically, we focus on a range of ML algorithms employed in the context of fetal ultrasound, encompassing tasks such as image classification, object recognition, and segmentation. We highlight how these innovative approaches can enhance ultrasound-based fetal anomaly detection and provide insights for future research and clinical implementations. Furthermore, we emphasize the need for further research in this domain where future investigations can contribute to more effective ultrasound-based fetal anomaly detection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ramin Yousefpour Shahrivar
- Department of Biology, College of Convergent Sciences and Technologies, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, 14515-775, Iran
| | - Fatemeh Karami
- Department of Medical Genetics, Applied Biophotonics Research Center, Science and Research Branch, Islamic Azad University, Tehran, 14515-775, Iran
| | - Ebrahim Karami
- Department of Engineering and Applied Sciences, Memorial University of Newfoundland, St. John’s, NL A1B 3X5, Canada
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Jost E, Kosian P, Jimenez Cruz J, Albarqouni S, Gembruch U, Strizek B, Recker F. Evolving the Era of 5D Ultrasound? A Systematic Literature Review on the Applications for Artificial Intelligence Ultrasound Imaging in Obstetrics and Gynecology. J Clin Med 2023; 12:6833. [PMID: 37959298 PMCID: PMC10649694 DOI: 10.3390/jcm12216833] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/21/2023] [Revised: 10/17/2023] [Accepted: 10/25/2023] [Indexed: 11/15/2023] Open
Abstract
Artificial intelligence (AI) has gained prominence in medical imaging, particularly in obstetrics and gynecology (OB/GYN), where ultrasound (US) is the preferred method. It is considered cost effective and easily accessible but is time consuming and hindered by the need for specialized training. To overcome these limitations, AI models have been proposed for automated plane acquisition, anatomical measurements, and pathology detection. This study aims to overview recent literature on AI applications in OB/GYN US imaging, highlighting their benefits and limitations. For the methodology, a systematic literature search was performed in the PubMed and Cochrane Library databases. Matching abstracts were screened based on the PICOS (Participants, Intervention or Exposure, Comparison, Outcome, Study type) scheme. Articles with full text copies were distributed to the sections of OB/GYN and their research topics. As a result, this review includes 189 articles published from 1994 to 2023. Among these, 148 focus on obstetrics and 41 on gynecology. AI-assisted US applications span fetal biometry, echocardiography, or neurosonography, as well as the identification of adnexal and breast masses, and assessment of the endometrium and pelvic floor. To conclude, the applications for AI-assisted US in OB/GYN are abundant, especially in the subspecialty of obstetrics. However, while most studies focus on common application fields such as fetal biometry, this review outlines emerging and still experimental fields to promote further research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Elena Jost
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg Campus 1, 53127 Bonn, Germany
| | - Philipp Kosian
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg Campus 1, 53127 Bonn, Germany
| | - Jorge Jimenez Cruz
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg Campus 1, 53127 Bonn, Germany
| | - Shadi Albarqouni
- Department of Diagnostic and Interventional Radiology, University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg Campus 1, 53127 Bonn, Germany
- Helmholtz AI, Helmholtz Munich, Ingolstädter Landstraße 1, 85764 Neuherberg, Germany
| | - Ulrich Gembruch
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg Campus 1, 53127 Bonn, Germany
| | - Brigitte Strizek
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg Campus 1, 53127 Bonn, Germany
| | - Florian Recker
- Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology, University Hospital Bonn, Venusberg Campus 1, 53127 Bonn, Germany
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Horgan R, Nehme L, Abuhamad A. Artificial intelligence in obstetric ultrasound: A scoping review. Prenat Diagn 2023; 43:1176-1219. [PMID: 37503802 DOI: 10.1002/pd.6411] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/27/2023] [Revised: 06/05/2023] [Accepted: 07/17/2023] [Indexed: 07/29/2023]
Abstract
The objective is to summarize the current use of artificial intelligence (AI) in obstetric ultrasound. PubMed, Cochrane Library, and ClinicalTrials.gov databases were searched using the following keywords "neural networks", OR "artificial intelligence", OR "machine learning", OR "deep learning", AND "obstetrics", OR "obstetrical", OR "fetus", OR "foetus", OR "fetal", OR "foetal", OR "pregnancy", or "pregnant", AND "ultrasound" from inception through May 2022. The search was limited to the English language. Studies were eligible for inclusion if they described the use of AI in obstetric ultrasound. Obstetric ultrasound was defined as the process of obtaining ultrasound images of a fetus, amniotic fluid, or placenta. AI was defined as the use of neural networks, machine learning, or deep learning methods. The authors' search identified a total of 127 papers that fulfilled our inclusion criteria. The current uses of AI in obstetric ultrasound include first trimester pregnancy ultrasound, assessment of placenta, fetal biometry, fetal echocardiography, fetal neurosonography, assessment of fetal anatomy, and other uses including assessment of fetal lung maturity and screening for risk of adverse pregnancy outcomes. AI holds the potential to improve the ultrasound efficiency, pregnancy outcomes in low resource settings, detection of congenital malformations and prediction of adverse pregnancy outcomes.
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Affiliation(s)
- Rebecca Horgan
- Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia, USA
| | - Lea Nehme
- Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia, USA
| | - Alfred Abuhamad
- Division of Maternal Fetal Medicine, Department of Obstetrics & Gynecology, Eastern Virginia Medical School, Norfolk, Virginia, USA
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Abstract
Machine learning (ML) methods are pervading an increasing number of fields of application because of their capacity to effectively solve a wide variety of challenging problems. The employment of ML techniques in ultrasound imaging applications started several years ago but the scientific interest in this issue has increased exponentially in the last few years. The present work reviews the most recent (2019 onwards) implementations of machine learning techniques for two of the most popular ultrasound imaging fields, medical diagnostics and non-destructive evaluation. The former, which covers the major part of the review, was analyzed by classifying studies according to the human organ investigated and the methodology (e.g., detection, segmentation, and/or classification) adopted, while for the latter, some solutions to the detection/classification of material defects or particular patterns are reported. Finally, the main merits of machine learning that emerged from the study analysis are summarized and discussed.
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Torres HR, Morais P, Oliveira B, Birdir C, Rüdiger M, Fonseca JC, Vilaça JL. A review of image processing methods for fetal head and brain analysis in ultrasound images. COMPUTER METHODS AND PROGRAMS IN BIOMEDICINE 2022; 215:106629. [PMID: 35065326 DOI: 10.1016/j.cmpb.2022.106629] [Citation(s) in RCA: 14] [Impact Index Per Article: 7.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/19/2021] [Revised: 12/20/2021] [Accepted: 01/08/2022] [Indexed: 06/14/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND OBJECTIVE Examination of head shape and brain during the fetal period is paramount to evaluate head growth, predict neurodevelopment, and to diagnose fetal abnormalities. Prenatal ultrasound is the most used imaging modality to perform this evaluation. However, manual interpretation of these images is challenging and thus, image processing methods to aid this task have been proposed in the literature. This article aims to present a review of these state-of-the-art methods. METHODS In this work, it is intended to analyze and categorize the different image processing methods to evaluate fetal head and brain in ultrasound imaging. For that, a total of 109 articles published since 2010 were analyzed. Different applications are covered in this review, namely analysis of head shape and inner structures of the brain, standard clinical planes identification, fetal development analysis, and methods for image processing enhancement. RESULTS For each application, the reviewed techniques are categorized according to their theoretical approach, and the more suitable image processing methods to accurately analyze the head and brain are identified. Furthermore, future research needs are discussed. Finally, topics whose research is lacking in the literature are outlined, along with new fields of applications. CONCLUSIONS A multitude of image processing methods has been proposed for fetal head and brain analysis. Summarily, techniques from different categories showed their potential to improve clinical practice. Nevertheless, further research must be conducted to potentiate the current methods, especially for 3D imaging analysis and acquisition and for abnormality detection.
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Affiliation(s)
- Helena R Torres
- Algoritmi Center, School of Engineering, University of Minho, Guimarães, Portugal; Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal; ICVS/3B's - PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal; 2Ai - School of Technology, IPCA, Barcelos, Portugal.
| | - Pedro Morais
- 2Ai - School of Technology, IPCA, Barcelos, Portugal
| | - Bruno Oliveira
- Algoritmi Center, School of Engineering, University of Minho, Guimarães, Portugal; Life and Health Sciences Research Institute (ICVS), School of Medicine, University of Minho, Braga, Portugal; ICVS/3B's - PT Government Associate Laboratory, Braga/Guimarães, Portugal; 2Ai - School of Technology, IPCA, Barcelos, Portugal
| | - Cahit Birdir
- Department of Gynecology and Obstetrics, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, TU Dresden, Germany; Saxony Center for Feto-Neonatal Health, TU Dresden, Germany
| | - Mario Rüdiger
- Department for Neonatology and Pediatric Intensive Care, University Hospital Carl Gustav Carus, TU Dresden, Germany
| | - Jaime C Fonseca
- Algoritmi Center, School of Engineering, University of Minho, Guimarães, Portugal
| | - João L Vilaça
- 2Ai - School of Technology, IPCA, Barcelos, Portugal
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He F, Wang Y, Xiu Y, Zhang Y, Chen L. Artificial Intelligence in Prenatal Ultrasound Diagnosis. Front Med (Lausanne) 2021; 8:729978. [PMID: 34977053 PMCID: PMC8716504 DOI: 10.3389/fmed.2021.729978] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 06/24/2021] [Accepted: 11/29/2021] [Indexed: 12/12/2022] Open
Abstract
The application of artificial intelligence (AI) technology to medical imaging has resulted in great breakthroughs. Given the unique position of ultrasound (US) in prenatal screening, the research on AI in prenatal US has practical significance with its application to prenatal US diagnosis improving work efficiency, providing quantitative assessments, standardizing measurements, improving diagnostic accuracy, and automating image quality control. This review provides an overview of recent studies that have applied AI technology to prenatal US diagnosis and explains the challenges encountered in these applications.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | | | - Lizhu Chen
- Department of Ultrasound, Shengjing Hospital of China Medical University, Shenyang, China
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