Because radiology is already cemented in the digital space, AI is a natural complement and a valuable tool to improve the quality of scans, diagnostics and processes for both physicians and patients. Technology can transform how knowledge is gathered, processed and applied. It can launch a new field seemingly overnight, as the invention of early X-ray machines did for radiology in 1895. Computed tomography (CT), positron emission tomography (PET) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) propelled the field forward with new capabilities throughout the 1960s and 1970s, and advancements are still coming. Keeping pace with the changing tides as new technologies become available is how field leaders stay at the cutting edge of discovery.
Artificial intelligence (AI), the practice of instructing computers to use logic and reasoning to complete tasks that humans typically do, is the next technological wave to reach the field of radiology. Andrew Smith , MD, PhD, Department of Radiology chair, is eager to bring these innovations to St. Jude. Currently, researchers are exploring novel AI tools. Indeed, radiology is where 75% of all Food and Drug Administration–approved AI algorithms are being applied.
“We’re interested in how we can use AI to do our jobs better and ultimately support our mission,” says Paul Yi , MD, Department of Radiology, Intelligent Imaging Informatics (I3) director. “AI helps us analyze massive amounts of data — more than a human might be able to do — all at once. It identifies patterns that might not be obvious to the human eye, and from there, it can make predictions or guide decisions that can improve research tasks or patient outcomes.” Where obstacle meets innovation
While AI may not hold all the answers, its abilities make it an essential tool for solving problems and improving existing techniques. “We’re identifying problems and forming teams to develop solutions,” says Smith. “AI is one of the tools we have available to do that.”
Radiology is already cemented in the digital space, making AI applications a natural fit to complement the work radiologists regularly perform. As an example, research from Smith, published in the American Journal of Roentgenology, demonstrated […]
Technology tidalwave: How artificial intelligence is shaping the future of radiology
