An AI technology that reconstructs precise 3D bone and organ models from minimal X-ray images, slashing patients' radiation exposure by up to 99% compared to CT scans, has been developed by researchers at The Hong Kong University of Science and Technology (HKUST).

The novel AI-powered algorithm can generate 3D bone and anatomical images using as few as 2-4 X-ray snapshots, compared to 400-500 for Computed Tomography (CT) scans, drastically cutting down radiation exposure by up to 99%. CT scans are a common medical imaging tool, but they always expose patients to high levels of radiation, which can be particularly harmful to children, pregnant women, and elderly patients who require frequent monitoring. 

This innovation not only enhances patient safety but also reduces costs and time. The cost of a CT scan is generally 6 to 8 times higher than that of an X-ray, and in public hospitals, prioritized patients currently wait about 3 weeks for a CT scan, while X-ray scans can be completed within hours. This new imaging technique also allows faster results, generating high-quality 3D images of bones and anatomy in under a minute.

To maximize the impact of this breakthrough, the team led by Prof. li Xiaomeng, Assistant Professor from the Department of Electronic and Computer Engineering and Associate Director of Center for Medical Imaging & Analysis, is partnering with Koln 3D, Hong Kong’s first orthopedic and metal component printing company, to integrate this new technology into pre-surgical planning (custom bone models), personalised implants (tailored to patient anatomy) and real-time surgical navigation.

A public hospital is set to validate the technology in the coming months. If proven effective, it may be adopted in the public medical system as early as next year. The research team is also seeking collaborations with other hospitals to explore applications in cardiac and pulmonary imaging, aiming to redefine standards for safer, faster diagnostics as well as enhance the efficacy of surgical planning and intraoperative procedures.

Picture credits: Orange News

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