Deep Learning–Based ASPECTS Algorithm Enhances Reader Performance and Reduces Interpretation Time

Abstract

BACKGROUND AND PURPOSE: ASPECTS is a long-standing and well-documented selection criterion for acute ischemic stroke treatment; however, the interpretation of ASPECTS is a challenging and time-consuming task for physicians with notable interobserver variabilities. We conducted a multireader, multicase study in which readers assessed ASPECTS without and with the support of a deep learning (DL)-based algorithm to analyze the impact of the software on clinicians' performance and interpretation time. MATERIALS AND METHODS: A total of 200 NCCT scans from 5 clinical sites (27 scanner models, 4 different vendors) were retrospectively collected. The reference standard was established through the consensus of 3 expert neuroradiologists who had access to baseline CTA and CTP data. Subsequently, 8 additional clinicians (4 typical ASPECTS readers and 4 senior neuroradiologists) analyzed the NCCT scans without and with the assistance of CINA-ASPECTS (Avicenna.AI), a DL-based, FDA-cleared, and CE-marked algorithm designed to compute ASPECTS automatically. Differences were evaluated in both performance and interpretation time between the assisted and unassisted assessments. RESULTS: < .05) when aided by the algorithm. CONCLUSIONS: With the assistance of the algorithm, readers' analyses were not only more accurate but also faster. Additionally, the overall ASPECTS evaluation exhibited greater consistency, fewer variabilities, and higher precision compared with the reference standard. This novel tool has the potential to enhance patient selection for appropriate treatment by enabling physicians to deliver accurate and timely diagnoses of acute ischemic stroke.

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