A clinically applicable deep-learning model for detecting intracranial aneurysm in computed tomography angiography images

Nat Commun. 2020 Nov 30;11(1):6090. doi: 10.1038/s41467-020-19527-w.

Abstract

Intracranial aneurysm is a common life-threatening disease. Computed tomography angiography is recommended as the standard diagnosis tool; yet, interpretation can be time-consuming and challenging. We present a specific deep-learning-based model trained on 1,177 digital subtraction angiography verified bone-removal computed tomography angiography cases. The model has good tolerance to image quality and is tested with different manufacturers. Simulated real-world studies are conducted in consecutive internal and external cohorts, in which it achieves an improved patient-level sensitivity and lesion-level sensitivity compared to that of radiologists and expert neurosurgeons. A specific cohort of suspected acute ischemic stroke is employed and it is found that 99.0% predicted-negative cases can be trusted with high confidence, leading to a potential reduction in human workload. A prospective study is warranted to determine whether the algorithm could improve patients' care in comparison to clinicians' assessment.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Aged
  • Algorithms
  • Angiography, Digital Subtraction / methods*
  • Brain Ischemia
  • China
  • Computed Tomography Angiography / methods*
  • Deep Learning*
  • Female
  • Humans
  • Imaging, Three-Dimensional / methods
  • Intracranial Aneurysm / diagnostic imaging*
  • Intracranial Aneurysm / surgery
  • Male
  • Middle Aged
  • Prospective Studies
  • Sensitivity and Specificity
  • Stroke
  • Tomography, X-Ray Computed / methods