Patient radiation exposure reduced by up to 99% with new reconstruction algorithm
Researchers in Hong Kong have developed an artificial intelligence algorithm they believe could reduce patients’ radiation exposure by up to 99%.
Using just 2-4 X-ray images, the tool can generate 3D reconstructions of bones and organs that can be used for surgical planning and treating complex medical conditions. Since it requires less than one hundredth of the images acquired during CT scans, it exposes patients to 95%–99% less radiation while also increasing patient throughput.
“There is tremendous demand for 3D printing solutions in orthopedics, and rapid, high-definition imaging technology could significantly optimize surgical workflows,” research lead LI Xiaomeng, PhD, assistant professor from the Department of Electronic and Computer Engineering at the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST), said in a statement on the algorithm. “Our technology is already assisting surgeons in preoperative planning, and we aim to expand into creating implantable bone structures while advancing imaging precision of 3D anatomical structures beyond our current 97% accuracy benchmark compared to conventional CT scans.”
Experts involved in the algorithm’s development say it takes less than one minute to complete the imaging needed to render the 3D reconstructions. Not only will this reduce wait times, but it also could decrease the associated costs of imaging, as CT scans come with markedly higher price tags than standard X-rays.
The HKUST team is now working with Koln 3D—Hong Kong’s first orthopedic and metal component printing company—to come up with a strategy to implement the algorithm into clinical practice.
Founder and CEO of Koln 3D, Edmond Yau, expressed optimism for how the partnership will impact patient care.
"HKUST’s AI technology solves our biggest challenge: time. Previously, designing a single implant took days of CT scans and manual modeling, not to mention the wait time for CT scan services at public hospitals,” Yau said. “Now, we can generate 3D bone models using just 2 X-ray inputs in under 30 seconds. This is transformative for patients needing urgent interventions. This collaboration enables us to deliver personalized solutions at scale, cutting costs by 50%-70% while improving outcomes."
The algorithm is set to be tested and validated at a public hospital in the next few months. If proven safe and effective there, it could be implemented into clinical practice some time next year.
In addition to her background in journalism, Hannah also has patient-facing experience in clinical settings, having spent more than 12 years working as a registered rad tech. She began covering the medical imaging industry for Innovate Healthcare in 2021.