GE Healthcare (NYSE:GE) has joined a research collaboration with Fujitsu Australia and an Australian university and imaging clinic to diagnose and monitor brain aneurysms on scans faster and more efficiently using artificial intelligence (AI).
The project with Macquarie University and Macquarie Medical Imaging today landed a $1.4 million grant from the Australian government. Fujitsu will lead the initiative, using its AI and digital solutions capability through its team in Australia and GE Healthcare will contribute medical imaging technology. Macquarie University and Macquarie Medical Imaging will provide clinical expertise for the development and testing of the technology.
Initially, the project will focus on refining the technology with a view to creating a fully commercialized solution that will be distributed initially through radiology practices in Australia and eventually on a worldwide basis.
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 look for abnormalities and aneurysms.
The collaborators expect the project to yield 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 may have one or more aneurysms.
This technology will also allow the tracking of identified aneurysms over time, providing radiologists with a diagnostic support tool and patients with greater peace of mind that known aneurysms are being effectively monitored over the long term.
A second element of the project will include a planning tool for surgical (stent) intervention. This tool will use fluid dynamic modeling to predict the risk of aneurysm rupture.
“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,” said Mike Foster, CEO of Fujitsu Australia and New Zealand, in a news release. “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.”
“As the consequences of brain aneurysm rupture are often fatal, effective and expedient detection is crucial,” added Matt Tucker, president & CEO of GE Healthcare Australia & New Zealand. “Unfortunately, screening and monitoring take 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.”
